Mixed signals.

Let’s start off on the right foot

“People are more likely to remember the great social interaction they had with a colleague than the great meeting they both attended.” – Ron Garan

The skinny

Believe what you can’t see because mental health is a group effort.

♥

Who's there?

October is the time of year to relish in horror and celebrate superstitions. So, some of you may be curious to know that it only takes three days of total isolation to make a human hallucinate. Creepy, right?

All alone.

Social isolation, and the lack of stimulation that accompanies it, are devasting on the mind and body. Chronic loneliness makes it more difficult to handle stress and take care of yourself. It can hurt everything from memory and the immune system to earning potential and lifespan.

Where the heart is.

A sense of connection is the top concern for remote and hybrid employees. But since over 60% of adults consider themselves lonely, this is clearly a hurdle for in-person teams, too. As social creatures, relationships are critical to long-term health and fulfillment.

Not alone.

A hot topic in both the personal and professional spheres, mental health is a universal struggle these days. A sad irony… overwhelmed employees who need connection the most may further isolate themselves.

Mixed signals.

Missed deadlines, sloppy work, and rude communication can all be signs of a leaving *cough* lonely employee. A pattern of behavior like this is surely concerning, but when managers respond first with patience, they may find opportunities to better support individuals.

Momager-inspired.

When employees are struggling, not only will their manager likely be the first person to notice early signs, but they’re also the best person to provide meaningful support. Managers who have a deeper appreciation for mental health are in increasing demand to take care of today’s workforce.

Lend an ear.

Making space to listen to employee concerns is important, but support can come in a variety of forms. Creating space to share personal stories can ease the stigma of asking for help. And taking the extra steps to connect employees directly to available resources breaks barriers for people to seek necessary care.

Date with Data: 36% of American workers feel their mental health negatively affected their job performances last year.

Further Reading: GREEN FLAGS: Signs that you are in the right workplace

For you: 5 Ways to Improve Open Enrollment Education