World Mental Health Day: A Commitment to Well-Being in Oklahoma
As we observe World Mental Health Day, Mental Health Association Oklahoma stands united in our mission to promote mental health, prevent suicide, end homelessness and transform the justice system – each of which impacts our mental health. We are dedicated to advocating for mental well-being across our state. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health for everyone and emphasizes the collective responsibility we share in creating a supportive environment for individuals facing mental health challenges. In Oklahoma, we recognize the increasing complexities of navigating mental health care, and we are committed to making this journey more accessible for our communities.
Understanding the Mental Health Landscape
Mental health is health care, and it is a crucial component of overall well-being, yet it often remains stigmatized and overlooked. Many Oklahomans struggle with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and stress, often exacerbated by the pressures of daily life. The affordable housing crisis, widespread financial instability and lingering effects from the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified these challenges, leading to increased rates of mental health concerns across all demographics. It is imperative that we address these issues with urgency and compassion, fostering an environment where individuals feel empowered to seek help without fear of judgment.
This year, Mental Health America released significant research on mental health in the workplace, revealing alarming statistics about the state of employee well-being. The findings indicate that workplace stress is a pervasive issue affecting productivity, job satisfaction, and overall mental health. Many employees report feeling overwhelmed, leading to burnout and disengagement. As we strive to create healthier work environments, it is essential that employers take proactive steps to support their staff’s mental health. This includes treating people like people, implementing policies that prioritize mental well-being and fostering a culture of openness about mental health issues.
Some Key Findings of MHA’s Report
• Most employees report that work stress impacts their sleep and relationships, but the degree varies greatly depending on their workplace’s overall health. Seventy-six percent of employees agreed that work stress affects their sleep. However, 90% of employees in unhealthy workplaces agreed with this statement, compared to 44% in healthy workplaces.
• Employers who value productivity over micromanagement understand the importance of transparent communication. Of employees who agreed that their employer values productivity over micromanagement, 94% strongly agreed that they encourage transparent communication at all levels.
• People-management training and flexible work options promote autonomy and support employees’ work-life balance. In workplaces that provided training for people managers and flexible work options, 74% of employees could structure their schedules or workload to meet their needs.
• Only two in five employees agreed that their employer makes changes based on their feedback. However, of those who agreed, 91% strongly agreed the employer invests in developing fair and supportive people managers, and 85% strongly agreed they encourage transparent communication at all levels.
• Employees with higher rates of psychological safety feel more confident advocating for their or others’ needs in the workplace. Of employees who felt confident expressing their opinions with their team, 87% strongly agreed that they felt confident advocating for their and others’ needs.
• Transparent communication and supportive people management are strongly associated with trust, appreciation, and psychological safety. However, less than half of employees agreed that their employer encourages clear and transparent communication.
Click here for the full report.
The Role of Employers in Mental Health
As highlighted by Mental Health America’s research, employers play a critical role in shaping the mental health landscape. Workplaces that prioritize mental health create environments where employees feel valued, supported, and engaged. This can lead to improved morale, increased productivity, and reduced turnover rates.
Employers can implement several strategies to support their employees’ mental well-being:
1. Open Dialogue: Encourage open conversations about mental health. Provide training for managers and staff to foster an inclusive culture where employees feel safe discussing their mental health challenges.
2. Wellness Programs: Introduce wellness programs that include mental health resources, stress management workshops, and access to counseling services. These programs can provide employees with the tools they need to cope with stress and improve their mental well-being.
3. Flexible Work Arrangements: Consider offering flexible work hours or remote work options. This flexibility can significantly alleviate stress and improve work-life balance for employees.
4. Regular Check-Ins: Encourage regular check-ins between managers and employees to discuss workloads and any challenges employees may be facing. This proactive approach can help identify issues early and provide necessary support.
5. Mental Health Days: Consider implementing mental health days as part of your leave policies. Allowing employees to take time off for mental health purposes can promote a culture of understanding and encourage self-care.
Our Commitment to Support
At Mental Health Association Oklahoma, we are dedicated to supporting Oklahomans through our various programs and services. One of our most vital resources is our free Mental Health Assistance Center. This service is designed to help individuals navigate the often-overwhelming and increasingly complex mental health care landscape. Our trained staff provides information about local mental health services, connects callers with appropriate resources and offers support for those in crisis.
The call-in center serves as a lifeline for many Oklahomans who may not know where to turn for help. Whether someone is seeking therapy, crisis intervention, or simply wants to talk about their feelings, we are here to listen walk along side them as we guide them to the appropriate care. By simplifying access to mental health resources, we hope to reduce barriers and encourage individuals to prioritize their mental well-being.
Promoting Mental Health Awareness
World Mental Health Day is an opportunity for us to raise awareness about mental health issues and the resources available to address them. We encourage community members, employers, and organizations to join us in promoting mental health awareness through events, workshops, and discussions. Educating ourselves and others about mental health can help dismantle the stigma that often prevents individuals from seeking help.
In our outreach efforts, we emphasize the importance of self-care, coping strategies, and resilience. We also advocate for policies that support mental health initiatives at the local, state and national levels. By working collaboratively with community partners, schools, and businesses, we aim to create an integrated approach to mental health that prioritizes prevention, early intervention, and access to care.
A Call to Action
On this World Mental Health Day, we urge Oklahomans to take action—whether that means reaching out for help, supporting a friend in need or advocating for mental health resources in your community. It is vital to remember that mental health is just as important as physical health. By prioritizing mental well-being, we contribute to the overall health of our communities and create a supportive environment for all.
If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to our free mental health assistance call-in center. Our dedicated staff is here to listen, support, and guide you toward the resources you need. If you’re in a mental health crisis, remember that 988 is available by phone or text 24/7, and it is a free resource.
Together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and ensure that every Oklahoman has access to the support they deserve. Let’s work in tandem to create a brighter, healthier future for all.