Mental illness is a common problem in every industry, but tech stands out because of the high-stress rate. According to BIMA’s Tech Inclusivity & Diversity Report, 52% of tech workers have suffered from anxiety or depression. In addition, they are five times more likely to be depressed than the UK average. Software engineers, data analysts, developers, product managers – all these roles require analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. But the fast-paced nature of tech jobs can lead to an abundance of stress that negatively impacts workers’ mental health.  

Employees may feel isolated and burdened by difficult projects or exhausted if they believe they have no control over their work. In addition, relentless and continuous change, common in tech, may significantly impact mental health. Long hours may also contribute to higher rates of absenteeism and more mistakes on the job. Employees may feel stressed by their workload, have inadequate training, or strive for unrealistic goals which is when 101 Data Solutions‘ services might be of assistance.  

Mental health should be considered as critical as physical health by technology firms, as a healthy work environment results in higher productivity and job satisfaction. When mental health issues are openly discussed, supported, and valued, employees are more likely to remain committed to their company. Here are some key ways you can transform the mental health culture in your workplace. 

Embed wellbeing into the heart of your company 

Having a supportive work environment, setting clear standards and expectations, coaching, mentoring, training, and working remotely may help employees with mental health issues. Employers can also assist mental health by providing mental health benefits, educating managers on mental health, and establishing a supportive workplace environment. In addition, mental health should be a priority in talent management, employee performance evaluations, and employee engagement surveys. Employees’ wellbeing should be a priority in hiring, onboarding, performance evaluations, and other company functions, and it should be linked to other company initiatives.  

Incorporate a mental health policy 

It is important to have a mental health policy in the workplace to let employees know where to seek help and how to handle mental health issues at work. In addition, a periodic employee survey to determine their wellbeing, regular one-to-ones, and Mental Health First Aid training can also be beneficial.  

Encourage mental wellbeing champions and mentorship 

Employees can maintain a healthier work routine by promoting mindfulness, mentorship, and coaching. Employers can assist colleagues in developing these abilities by encouraging them to participate in self-care activities such as exercising and taking care of their health. Businesses can also help colleagues succeed by creating a mentorship culture where employees can learn from one another and advance their careers.  

Hire people with the right skillset 

Employers must employ individuals with the required abilities for the position. If job descriptions are unclear or poorly composed, people may mistakenly apply for positions they cannot handle, which will undoubtedly increase their stress levels.  

Be responsive to your employees’ needs during organisational change 

It is critical to keep employees in mind when implementing changes in the workplace. Companies must ensure that their employees’ voices are heard if a change occurs. Otherwise, employees may suffer from mental health issues due to the company’s indifference to their needs.  

At 101 Data Solutions, we believe that when companies focus on the health of their employees, they retain more workers and are more productive. Furthermore, when employees know that their company cares about their mental health, they are more likely to seek assistance and identify coping strategies for when they’re struggling with mental health.  

About Brett Edgecombe, Managing Director, 101 Data Solutions   

Even as a child living in Canada, Brett always had an interest in technology, so starting his career within the technology industry was a natural progression in 1998 when it began at the UK’s first ISP, Compuserve Interactive Services in Bristol.   

He has first-hand experience in modern Enterprise Storage Infrastructure solutions, having worked at Sun Microsystems in 2000, where he worked with large commercial and education customers across the UK.   

Brett created 101 Data Solutions in 2008 with a focus on Data Storage centric delivered through high-quality technology solutions direct to businesses throughout the UK. His strategic vision and sector knowledge allows him to bring excellence to 101’s customers through experience, technical foresight and relationship building.