Improve productivity and safety through a mentally healthy workplace

Abstract

Twenty percent of Australians experience a mental health condition each year, making it an issue to be addressed. Research undertaken by accountancy services firm PwC highlighted that the cost to Australian employers as a result of untreated mental health conditions is A$10.9 billion a year, with the most of this cost—A$10.7 billion—as a result of absenteeism and lost productivity. Much behaviour associated with poor mental health also becomes risk factors for workplace safety. The oil and gas industry has a strong focus on process and personal safety. A workplace that has a high level of mental health adds another dimension of psychological safety. In the risk management model of Orlandella and Reason a workplace that is mentally healthy adds another barrier to assist in the management of risk. There is a growing awareness that establishing a workplace that is mentally healthy involves more than just managing the psychological compensation claims of workers. What is lacking is an integrated approach, including evidence-based information, resources and a model that can adapted to meet specific needs. beyondblue, in conjunction with industry bodies, government and the mental health sector, has developed Heads Up as a one-stop-shop for businesses to improve the mental health of workplaces. Heads Up demonstrates how business can benefit by having a workplace that is mentally healthy as a result of reduced costs, a positive return on investment. There are also qualitative benefits of being associated with an employer of choice: this involves improved staff retention, morale, engagement and productivity. Heads Up has a range of free resources and includes an action plan tool for businesses to develop tailored plans to improve the mental health of their workplaces. Mental health is everyone’s business.