Recognizing and Responding to Mental Health Issues in the Workplace

Introduction:

This training program offers skills for recognizing signs of mental health distress, intervening appropriately, and promoting a workplace culture that supports mental health. As mental health concerns increasingly affect workplace productivity, morale, and culture, staff must understand how to identify and address these challenges, fostering a supportive work environment.

Program Objectives:

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

•  Understand the basic concepts of mental health and its impact on workplace dynamics.

•  Identify common mental health issues encountered in the workplace.

•  Recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges among colleagues.

•  Apply effective communication techniques to engage colleagues experiencing mental distress.

•  Develop strategies to promote a healthy and supportive work environment.

Target Audience:

• Supervisors.

• Team leads.

• HR personnel.

• Employees responsibles for fostering well-being within teams. 

Program Outlines:

Unit 1:

Understanding Mental Health in the Workplace:

• Defining Mental Health in the Context of Work.

• The Impact of Mental Health on Work Performance and Team Dynamics.

• Recognizing Mental Health Stigma in the Workplace.

• Common Workplace Stressors and Their Mental Health Implications.

• Mental Health and Cultural Sensitivity in North Africa.

Unit 2:

Identifying Mental Health Issues in the Workplace:

• Recognizing Early Warning Signs of Mental Health Challenges.

• Types of Mental Health Issues Commonly Seen in Workplaces.

• How Mental Health Issues Manifest in Work Behaviors.

• Distinguishing Between Work Stress and Mental Health Disorders.

• Observing Changes in Communication, Attendance, and Productivity.

Unit 3:

Communicating Effectively with Affected Colleagues:

• Establishing Trust and Building Rapport.

• Active Listening Techniques for Sensitive Conversations.

• How to Approach a Conversation About Mental Health.

• Using Supportive and Non-Judgmental Language.

• Managing Confidentiality and Privacy in Mental Health Conversations.

Unit 4:

Practical Response Strategies:

• Methods of Developing an Action Plan for Immediate Support.

• How and When to Make Referrals to Mental Health Resources.

• Supporting Self-Care and Coping Strategies in the Workplace.

• Providing Ongoing Support Without Overstepping Boundaries.

• Crisis Intervention Techniques for Immediate Mental Health Support.

Unit 5: 

Creating a Supportive Workplace Culture:

• Promoting Mental Health Awareness Across Teams.

• Implementing Workplace Policies for Mental Health Support.

• Advices for Building a Peer Support Network Within UNICEF.

• Preventing Burnout Through Organizational Practices.

• How to perform Regular Mental Health Check-ins and Evaluations.