Maintaining Employee Morale and Mental Health

For a surprisingly high number of the population, the Coronavirus battle over the last few weeks have made it the hardest few weeks of their life. Whilst many have had loved ones and family members in hospital with critical illnesses, and may have even lost them, they are not the only ones affected. Limited social activity and travel restrictions have impacted the lifestyle of every single citizen, and many are facing the fact that they won’t be able to safely visit family, go on holidays or just 'live normal life' for many months to come.

The rise of mental health issues in the workplace

Right through from management to the factory floor, anxiety and poor mental health is more widespread than is often acknowledged, and Covid-19 has only added to this. Statistics show that Coronavirus has had a negative effect on the mental health of around 45% of adults. This comes with far-reaching effects and costs which the food industry is by no means immune from, with factory employees losing focus, becoming less productive and ultimately not attending work.
Steps you can take to help reduce anxiety and mental health issues in your workplace:
- Maintain regular contact with all employees to keep a constant pulse – don’t forget the ‘small talk’.
- Supportively listen and seek to understand employees that are willing to share their challenges.
- Develop consistent working and communication routines so employees always know what to expect.
- Set up a helpline and ensure that team members know there is a resource available to support them.
- Ensure visual internal communication of brand values and motivational quotations, such as the examples below.
- Show gratitude and appreciation towards employees - never forget your smile!