C-Suite Blind Spot – The Hybrid Workforce – Is the Second Wave Mental Health?

Blind Spot

Job loss, reduced income, increased workloads, job related safety issues, lack of clear and reliable information, children concerns, a transient workplace structure, elimination of personal freedoms, isolation, and overall future uncertainty, all contribute to stress in normal times. Add to that the elements of the worst pandemic in a decade and even the sanest among us can feel increased anxiety, despair, or depression. The situation is further compounded with COVID19 being an invisible force. Unlike a fire, hurricane, or any natural disaster that is visible so the unsafe zone can be avoided, with coronavirus, anywhere or everywhere can potentially be unsafe.

The magnitude of the challenges and ongoing certainty that we are all currently facing can lead to mental health issues in the workplace. Employee’s mental health can have an effect on productivity, absenteeism, workplace-team stability, and communication. The World Health Organization estimates depression and mental health issues cost the global economy $1 trillion in lost productivity each year.

Illumination

A recent Kaiser Family Foundation poll found that the pandemic had negatively affected the mental health of 56% of American adults. Additional studies show that the unemployed, those with lower incomes and students had greater levels of concern for their mental health. Interestingly, studies also show that employed, higher income earners also had similar concerns. Mental health issues affect everyone.

A joint report from Morneau Shepell and Mental Health Commission of Canada references “Dr. Howatt, he says that ‘Mental health is not binary – in that people either have issues or not; it lies along a continuum and can change depending on the challenges we face. It’s critical that employers consider the mental health of the entire workforce and develop a strategy that addresses all levels of mental health programming, including preventative measures to keep employees healthy, early intervention to navigate through challenges, and supportive policies to aid in effective transition back into the workplace’.”

it is imperative therefore, that the issue of mental health be included in the hybrid workplace plan. In addressing this issue, executives should:

· Seek external expertise to target and plan for both immediate and long-term needs

· Promote a healthy environment that is free of mental health stigma

· Ensure that all employees know and have equal access to a support structure that is safe, secure, and confidential

· Ensure adequate funding for mental health

· Increase vigilance about employee’s psychological safety

Most of my accomplishments have been win or lose situations. For me, second place was not an option. My key to success was to assemble a diverse team of specialized individuals who were experts in their fields. Together, we were able to develop strategies that helped me to identity, address and eliminate my “blind spots”. Executives may want to approach their blind spots similarly. When winning or losing are the only two choices, build a team and choose to win.