World Mental Health Day: It's not a cost, it's a strategic investment
Today, Friday, October 10th, marks World Mental Health Day.
It serves as a crucial reminder for all of us that mental wellbeing deserves just as much attention and proactivity as physical safety. This year's theme, 'Access to services - mental health in catastrophes and emergencies,' is particularly resonant, highlighting the vital need for robust mental health support in our increasingly unstable world.
For health, safety, and wellbeing professionals, we know it can be a challenge to "sell" the benefits of prioritising mental health, both to leadership and to the wider workforce. The key is to reframe the conversation: this is not a cost center; it is a strategic investment in your most valuable asset, your people.
Building the Business Case for Wellbeing
Investing in your team's mental health isn't just the right thing to do; it's the smart thing to do. A proactive approach to mental wellbeing directly drives tangible business outcomes. Consider these key drivers:
Worker Retention: A supportive environment where employees feel valued reduces turnover and retains crucial talent.
Productivity: Mentally healthy employees are more focused, engaged, and innovative.
Risk Management: Addressing stress and burnout mitigates risks of accidents, errors, and grievances.
Reducing Sickness Absence: Proactive support can significantly lower rates of both short-term and long-term sickness.
Business Reputation: Being known as an employer who cares for their people attracts top talent and enhances brand image.
Ensuring Compliance: Meeting health and safety obligations includes protecting psychological wellbeing.
Avoiding Financial Loss & Future Gains: The cost of inaction—through lost productivity and high turnover—far outweighs the investment in wellbeing programs.
Take Action: Invest in Your Team with Temple
Empower your organisation with the skills and awareness needed to build a mentally healthy workplace. Temple QMS offers a suite of expert-led Mental Health & Wellbeing training courses designed to make a real impact.
Online Mental Health First Aider Gain an in-depth understanding of mental health, the factors that affect wellbeing, and the practical skills to spot the signs of mental health issues and guide a person towards appropriate support.
Learn more
Online 4-Hour Mental Health Refresher Course
Ideal for existing Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAs) and Champions to check-in with instructors, refresh their knowledge, and share experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
Learn more
Adult MHFA 2-Day Classroom Mental Health Course
This immersive course is perfect for anyone who wants to become a certified Mental Health First Aider. You will gain the skills and confidence to provide first aid support, for work or personally.
Learn more
Adult Mental Health Aware Half Day
Available in the classroom or online, this introductory course is designed to be delivered across your entire organisation to start conversations, reduce stigma, and introduce the topic of mental health.
Learn more
Adult MHFA 1 Day Classroom Mental Health Course
Equip all line managers with the skills and confidence to spot when someone on their team is struggling, and when and how to offer support.
Learn more
Go Deeper: Listen to the Temple Talks Podcast
To explore the topic further, tune into the Temple Talks podcast episode, "Better Mental Health in Business," featuring expert insights. Discover practical strategies and learn why prioritising mental health is a cornerstone of a successful, resilient business.
Listen here: https://templeqms.com/temple-talks
This World Mental Health Day, let's move beyond awareness and towards meaningful action. Investing in mental health training is a powerful step in protecting your team and future-proofing your organisation.