In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Sarah Adler about supporting mental health in the modern workplace. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!
Watch the episode here:
Quick Recap
Jonathan and Sarah Adler discussed the importance of addressing mental health issues in the modern workplace, emphasizing the need for proactive measures and supportive work cultures. They explored the role of HR professionals in creating solutions for employees and the challenges of maintaining work-life balance. The conversation also touched on Sarah's expertise in mental health, particularly focusing on Gen Z and the importance of considering systemic impacts on mental well-being.
Addressing Mental Health in the Modern Workplace
Jonathan and Sarah Adler discussed the importance of addressing mental health issues in the modern workplace. They acknowledged that the pandemic had brought attention to these issues, but also noted that other factors such as social media, burnout, and a loneliness epidemic contribute to mental health challenges. Jonathan emphasized the need for constant attention and proactive measures to address these issues, which he believes are becoming increasingly complex and disruptive.
Mental Health Support in Organizations Discussion
Jonathan and Sarah discussed the importance of mental health support within organizations. Jonathan emphasized the business case for prioritizing mental health, while also acknowledging its importance from a human perspective. Sarah, a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of a mental health platform, shared her background and expertise in the field. The conversation was set to delve deeper into the implications of mental health support for organizations, with Jonathan and Sarah's combined expertise in organizational development and clinical psychiatry.
Focusing on Gen. Z's Mental Health Needs
Sarah, the founder of Wave Life, a mental health platform focusing on Gen. Z, discussed the reasons behind their focus on this demographic. She explained that Gen. Z is driving the national conversation on mental health, demanding it to be viewed as a part of everyday life rather than a stigmatized issue. Sarah also highlighted the importance of looking at mental health from a preventative, acute phase, and maintenance standpoint, likening it to a sine wave that waxes and wanes due to internal and external factors. She emphasized the need to move beyond individualistic views of mental health and consider systemic and environmental impacts.
Addressing HR Roles and Mental Health in Workplace
Sarah and Jonathan discussed the disconnect between HR professionals and their roles in creating culture and solutions for employees. They agreed that HR professionals should not be the corporate therapists, but rather focus on legal aspects and ensuring compliance. They also discussed the importance of incorporating mental health into workplace culture to improve productivity and the bottom line. Sarah emphasized the need for demonstrating ROI for mental health solutions, and Jonathan agreed, suggesting that this could be done by focusing on specific metrics and impacts on the business. They also discussed actionable tips for mental wellness in the workplace, such as daily check-ins, transparent hiring practices, and recognizing the impact of the system on individual mental health.
Work-Life Balance Challenges in Knowledge Economy
Jonathan and Sarah discussed the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance in the knowledge economy. Jonathan shared his experiences working in various industries and how work-related stress often bleeds into personal life. Sarah agreed, noting that Covid highlighted the impossibility of separating work and home life. They both emphasized the importance of acknowledging emotions and not fearing them in the workplace, as this can lead to increased productivity and humanity. Sarah also shared her experience with an employee dealing with personal issues, demonstrating the value of acknowledging and supporting employees' emotional needs. The conversation concluded with Sarah encouraging the audience to reach out to her for more information about her work and Jonathan expressing his appreciation for the discussion.
Listen to the webinar here:
