Research brief

LifeWorks’ Research Briefs are short papers highlighting specific mental health related-topics relevant to the workplace. Using research-based insights, they explain the root causes of the topic/issue and suggest concrete actions organizations can take to improve workplace support.

Mental health at work strategy development: The WHO and the US Surgeon General advance the narrative

The increase in mental health risk, and the recognition of the positive impact that workplaces can have, has increased the focus on workplace mental health and wellbeing.

• Successful workplace mental health and wellbeing initiatives require an approach that addresses both workplace experiences and the need for individual supports.
• Workers who felt their employer support their mental wellbeing have better mental health and higher productivity scores than employees who don’t feel supported.

LifeWorks recommends a four-stage approach to developing or optimizing an employee mental health and wellbeing strategy.

1. Needs assessment
2. Mental health and wellbeing strategy gap analysis
3. Roadmap
4. Measurement and evaluation framework