At dbs, we believe that in the workplace, encouraging mental health awareness and support is not only good practice but a part of running a successful business.
With 14.7% of UK workers annually having mental health problems and 12.7% of sick days being attributed to mental health issues, creating a supportive environment isn’t optional—it’s a must.
While physical hurts at work generally come out into the open and are acted upon, the psychological ones are way more complicated to pinpoint. However, they are by no means less important to ensure staff good health and, accordingly, prosperity in business. Proactive mental health support is one of the foundational elements of dbs, designed to help the team and the clients to succeed.
dbs’s Mental Health Strategies
We have implemented some simple but effective measures to address and support mental health for our own staff as well as those using our facilities. Here are a few things that other businesses can easily take up:
1. Hassle-free parking
We have made sure there is ample parking at all our locations. This may sound like a small thing, but the stress of finding a place to park, meters, and running out of time can cause unnecessary stress early in the day. We take that off everybody’s plate so they can start their day right.
2. Natural Light for Well-Being
Large windows in our Victorian and Georgian buildings flood our workspaces with natural light. It’s not an aesthetic decision on our part: natural light actually boosts serotonin levels, reduces eye strain, and improves productivity and mood—all things proven through science.
3. Designated Breaking Areas
We have bistro areas, kitchenettes, and landscaped gardens, all designed to be sensitive spaces where our team and clients can retreat from their desks for just a moment’s respite. A five-minute break for a coffee or some fresh air can save hours of stress-induced errors and procrastination.
4. Open Door Policy
Approachability and empathy go a long way; in dbs, every single member of the team knows that they can bring up any issue, big or small, without feeling judged or demeaned. We listen and try as much as possible to give support that all may feel valued and heard.
Why Mental Health Awareness Matters
Promoting good mental health in the workplace not only benefits employees, but it also makes good business sense. Companies that promote good mental well-being may realise the following benefits:
- Increased productivity, efficiency, and innovation.
- Reduced absenteeism and staff turnover.
- Better quality of business and employee loyalty.
- Lower costs of absenteeism and presenteeism related to mental health.
- Legal compliance with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requirements.
What Businesses Can Learn from dbs
Creating an enabling environment doesn’t require huge investments; rather, it’s about understanding the little things that create a big difference. It may be flexible working options, a quiet room for relaxation, or just an open way of communication. The essence is people first.
Helpful Links
Taking care of mental health in the workplace is an ongoing task. For a more comprehensive guide, read Mind’s employer guide or call: Mental health support: 0300 123 3393. We are proud to share our approach and encourage other businesses to put mental health at the forefront. Together, we can make workplaces where both people and businesses thrive.
