Organisations have the power to help their staff in terms of mental health, particularly amid pandemic-induced lockdowns and work-from-home arrangements, according to Gallagher Bassett.
“Employers are in a unique position to extend support to your workforce during this trying time,” asserted the claims management expert. “The steps your company takes can help ease the tension they’re feeling and address any concerns that exist.
“If any of your team members already suffer from anxiety or depression, social distancing and self-quarantine measures can exacerbate feelings of helplessness and loneliness. This makes it even more important to reach out.”
In a blog post, Gallagher Bassett talked about being proactive in supporting employees and highlighted the importance of knowing the signs that indicate a team member could be suffering because of the coronavirus crisis.
These include disengagement, restlessness, irritability, a decline in work quality, difficulty concentrating, decreased productivity, low morale, and lack of cooperation.
“If you notice any of these, the root of the problem might not always stem back to anxiety over COVID-19,” noted the firm. “Still, it’s worth putting a plan in place to address and mitigate these issues.”
Gallagher Bassett stressed that the initiative should be a company-wide effort instead of being the responsibility of a single manager. It recommends communicating clearly and regularly, remaining accessible, encouraging colleague interaction and connection, and allowing time for breaks.
Meanwhile employers are advised to check in with their managers as well, in the same way that the workforce is afforded support. The key, said Gallagher Bassett, is supporting mental health as a team.
