Our people are our business

Abstract

Every year in Australia, the number of people taking their own lives is more than those who die in vehicle accidents. Further, the most recent studies show industry workers are six times more likely to commit suicide than to die from a workplace accident. Simply put, mental health significantly impacts workplaces.

Estimations suggest mental health issues cost Australian industry $14.8 billion. Further, an employee who is not mentally healthy presents fitness for work issues similar to those of a worker influenced by drugs or alcohol.

Protecting the mental health and safety of our workforce is the right thing to do—for workers, their families and the wider community. A proactive approach to mental health has a positive impact on workplace culture, which further impacts safety outcomes and productivity. Moreover, training numerous psychologists is not required.

Proven strategies that are practical, simple and cost-effective are available. Preventative approaches include strategies borrowed from the military to strengthen the resilience of workers and their families. From a mitigation perspective, a first-aid model means it is about providing support and care, and all levels of the workforce can be equipped with the skills to help.

It is mostly about having the confidence to ask the question and to listen. De-mystifying mental health and making it okay to talk about significantly reduce the likelihood of depression, anxiety and self-harm. By following this first-aid model, a difference can be made.