The COVID-19 pandemic continues to seriously impact our nation's mental health with data from the US Census Bureau showing a tripling of people experiencing signs of depression and anxiety. Employers recognize their employees as a valuable resource and see addressing mental health as a business imperative. Whether employees are considered essential, working remotely, or returning to the workplace, this new guide provides information on the critical steps that employers can take to support the mental health and well-being of employees focusing on four key areas represented by LEAD: Leadership. Effective Communication. Adapt to Change. Double Down on Access.
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Depression and anxiety spiked among black Americans after George Floyd's death
Americans have seen startling surges in mental health distress amid the coronavirus pandemic and protests in communities across the country. Black and Asian Americans have seen disproportionate levels of emotional and mental health stress. In the week after the video of George Floyd's death became public, data from the Census Bureau shows that the rate of black Americans showing clinically significant signs of anxiety or depressive disorders jumped from 35% to 41% - representing about 1.4 million more people.
The Not-So-Silent Fallout from COVID-19 Stress
COVID-19 related stress is at an all-time high and examining our own mental health has become imperative. According to a recent study done by the American Psychiatric Association, more than one-third of Americans (36%) say coronavirus is having a serious impact on their mental health and most (59%) say coronavirus is having a serious impact on their day-to-day lives. The need to address these mental health issues now is of utmost importance. Ignoring these issues can lead to chronic mental health conditions including anxiety, depression and other serious mental health issues. Employers can make a positive difference in the mental health and well-being of their employees.
'Be Gentle': How to Stay Healthy Emotionally During Social Isolation
The pandemic, coupled with current events, have impacted everyone's day-to-day lives dramatically. The need to focus on staying mentally and emotionally healthy is more important than ever. It's really important that people set up a schedule for the day. Schedule breaks and designate blocks of "no screen time" to get a break from the news and social media said Darcy Gruttadaro, JD, Director of the Center for Workplace Mental Health at the American Psychiatric Association Foundation.
How Organizations can Support the Mental Health of Black Employees
Leadership in organizations should recognize the need to ensure that black employees, like all employees, have access to mental health services and supports. Now is the time to get serious about addressing workplace mental health. To make an impact and advocate for the needs of black employees, leaders must acknowledge their trauma, make a commitment to supports and services for them, and actively listen to and acknowledge their needs - and then convert them into action.