Arguably, the most valuable and impactful asset of Utah businesses is one simple thing: their people. Because each individual plays an important role in ensuring the health and success of our businesses, it should be equally, if not more, important that leaders support the health and wellness of employees at every level. May, which is Mental Health Awareness Month, is the perfect time to evaluate the practices, policies and resources of your business and how effectively they are promoting the mental wellness of your employees.
Utah is an amazing place to live and work; even so, the people who call Utah home are by no means immune to the very real mental health challenges faced by so many. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Utah had one of the highest rates of mental illness in 2023 (about 30% of adults) and the highest percentage of serious mental illness. Beyond mental illness, challenges and stressors to people’s mental health are impacting individuals at all levels of our businesses. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services shared that 76% of U.S. workers reported at least one symptom of a mental health condition, and 84% reported that their workplace conditions contributed to at least one mental health challenge.
Our workforce is the heart and soul of Utah’s economy; finding and keeping the right people is essential to businesses’ growth and success. Research indicates that companies that invest in effective employee wellness programs and mental health resources experience more employee engagement, greater employee satisfaction and increased employee retention. For companies seeking to attract talent, having a culture that is supportive of mental health can be a large draw; 81% of workers reported that they will be looking for workplaces that support mental health in the future.
As a business community, it is in our best interest to foster a culture that understands, supports and promotes mental health and wellness. You can help create that culture internally by raising awareness and reducing stigma with mental health policies, training for employees or dedicated paid time off for mental health. Ensure your employees can get the care they need; invest in medical plans that have robust coverage for mental health, EAPs or mental health and stress management tools. Support employees that have mental health conditions with flexible and adaptable workplaces, encourage positive team dynamics and maintain healthy avenues for open conversations about mental health.
For businesses large and small, resources are already available to help promote wellness for employees. Organizations like the Utah Community Builders offer resources like the Workforce Resilience through Mental Fitness or Workplace Flexibility Guide that can help guide your company to initiatives and programs that encourage employee wellbeing. The Utah Department of Health and Human Services also provides a variety of resources for individuals, managers, and businesses to evaluate, improve and implement mental health strategies and opportunities.
When Utah families and workers have the support and resources they need to manage mental health challenges, all of us will benefit. As we continue to promote growth and prosperity in Utah, let’s ensure together the physical, mental and emotional security of the asset at the core of everything we work for – our people.
