The link between family mental health and employee productivity, and how businesses can support

Over the last few years, we’ve seen a massive increase in employee wellbeing initiatives, which can only be a positive thing. However, employees’ concerns over family health can also have a huge impact on their own performance and productivity, leading to poor sleep, distraction and increased days off.

Whilst more and more physical wellbeing initiatives have emerged to support family health, should businesses now be looking at family mental health and providing solutions? Not only will you be supporting your employees wellbeing today, but you are also creating a healthier workforce for the future. 

It’s estimated that 1 in 6 children aged 5-16 likely have a mental health problem(1). Furthermore, 50% of all mental health problems start by the age of 14 (2). 

Children’s services are often stretched, and where treatment is available, there can be long waits. So how can businesses take a whole family approach to mental health? 

1. Offer online tools and resources that focus on family wellbeing not just employee wellbeing

By offering employees preventative solutions, families can build better resilience, spotting the signs of poor mental health early and seeking support.

2. Create a supportive environment 

By having friendly family policies and practices, employees will feel better supported. Encouraging good work-life balance and offering flexible working can  really help. 

3. Support families to intervene early

Mental health issues can quickly escalate, so it’s important to intervene early. Whilst traditional workplace models have supported adults only, there are organisations that cater for children, providing specialist therapy to ensure children get the right support they need, when they need it. 

4. Encourage positive relationships and open conversations

Being a parent in the workplace can often be lonely, and the pull between work and home life can be difficult to manage.

Encourage your employees to have open communications. Sharing stories and seeing that others are experiencing similar difficulties can go a long way. 

At Mynurva, we take a family-approach to mental health. Providing therapy options that support the whole family, including children. To find out more visit ww.mynurva.com 

1. Mental Health of Children and Young People in England, 2020: NHS digital, 22 October 2020
2. First port of call, The Children’s Society, 18 June 2021