In the globalized and fast-paced world of work, the mental health of employees is an essential factor for corporate success. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 12 billion working days are lost worldwide each year due to depression and anxiety disorders, resulting in a productivity loss of approximately one trillion US dollars1. In this context, it is crucial for companies to promote the mental health of their employees and take appropriate measures. One effective strategy is to implement and train mental first aiders.
Mental first aiders are specially trained employees who are able to recognize mental stress and crises at an early stage. Their role is to provide initial support by actively listening, offering emotional support and providing information about further help. This is an important way to promote employee well-being and prevent mental illness.
Why are mental first aiders essential for companies?
Early detection and intervention: Early detection and intervention is an essential aspect of workplace health promotion. Training mental first aiders enables companies to identify and address mental health issues at an early stage, thereby preventing them from worsening. Early intervention ensures that employees receive the support they need quickly and regain their ability to work.
Dr. Wilma Kauke
CPO LA EMEA & Global HR Director
“The mental health of our employees is of central importance to us. By training first aiders for mental health, we create a supportive environment in which everyone can feel safe and valued. Training mental first aiders is a crucial step in establishing a future-oriented corporate culture that puts the well-being of employees at the center, supports their performance and thus ensures the long-term success of the company.”
Reducing stigma:
The presence of mental first aiders helps to reduce stigma around mental health. According to a study by Mind Share Partners in the Harvard Business Review, 81% of companies have increased their focus on employee mental health since the pandemic2. Nevertheless, one in three employees report feeling insufficiently supported. An open corporate culture in which mental health is discussed encourages employees’ willingness to talk about the challenges they face.
Increase employee satisfaction and retention:
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), 92% of employees said that it is very important to them to work for a company that values their emotional and psychological health3. Companies that are committed to mental health increase employee satisfaction and loyalty.
Reduce absenteeism and productivity losses:
Active support from mental first aiders can help to reduce absenteeism and minimize productivity losses. This has a positive impact on overall business performance and supports long-term business goals.
A strong commitment to promoting mental health
Our corporate culture promotes a supportive and respectful working environment that has a positive impact on the mental well-being of our employees. We place a high value on respectful interaction with one another and support personal responsibility and initiative. Open and transparent communication are central components of our corporate values, and we place a high value on employees feeling psychologically safe and encouraged to talk about their mental challenges.
Joanna Amor
Head of TAED LA EMEA & Global DEI Manager
“Diversity and inclusion are core values of our company. By training mental first aiders, we not only promote awareness of mental health, but also a culture of openness and support. This helps us to better understand and address the individual needs of our employees.”
LAPP is committed to prioritizing and sustainably promoting the mental health of its employees. We aim to train 5% of our global workforce in mental first aid – a decision by the board that underscores the importance of mental health in the company. This measure emphasizes the commitment to making mental health visible and providing concrete support.
This is a clear commitment to the relevance of mental health and creates a supportive and open working environment that promotes the well-being of all employees.
Promoting mental health is not only an ethical concern, but also a strategic advantage for LAPP. Training mental first aiders is a crucial step in establishing a future-oriented corporate culture that puts the well-being of employees at the center and thus ensures the long-term success of the company.