A recent study reveals that while mental health issues affect a significant portion of the workforce in Denmark, many leaders struggle to address them effectively, highlighting a need for improvement in workplace support systems.
Importance of Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace
During their careers, most individuals are likely to experience a mental health issue or work alongside someone who does. A recent survey conducted by YouGov for the “EN AF OS” campaign under the Danish Health Authority indicates that the management of mental illness in workplaces is challenging, yet employees desire greater involvement from leadership.
Nanna Skovgaard, Deputy Director of the Danish Health Authority, emphasizes the critical role that workplaces play in supporting employees with mental health challenges. “The workplace is vital in helping employees manage mental illnesses so they can maintain their employment. With four out of five Danes expected to seek treatment for mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia during their lives, it’s an issue that will touch most people,” she stated.
According to the study, less than half of the surveyed leaders (40%) believe they are fostering open discussions about mental health. Furthermore, 43% of them are not aware of the available support structures designed to assist employees facing such challenges. This gap in understanding is exactly what “EN AF OS” aims to address by providing a new guidance document for leaders that encourages dialogue about mental health issues.
“The ability of leaders to support their employees who are dealing with mental health issues can be crucial for fostering an inclusive workplace and retaining staff,” Skovgaard added. “One straightforward approach might be to agree on work-related adjustments with individual employees. These adaptations need not be complex or costly; they can simply reflect common sense, such as allowing someone to work reduced hours for a period.”
Combating Stigmas Associated with Mental Illness
The research further reveals that many leaders can adopt more proactive measures to dismantle the prejudices surrounding mental health in the workplace. While 39% of managers agree that their organizations actively try to mitigate stigma related to mental illness, only 26% of employees share this sentiment. This discrepancy indicates the need for leaders to work harder to promote openness about mental health issues at work.
“The most effective way to engage and support employees who have or are experiencing mental health issues is through openness and inclusivity,” Skovgaard noted. “However, both leaders and colleagues—regardless of their mental health status—may find it difficult to initiate these conversations. Therefore, it is important that employers take responsibility for creating a mentally healthy work environment where discussing mental health challenges and individual needs becomes normalized.”
The Launch of a National Information Campaign
In addition to the new guide, the Danish Health Authority has launched a nationwide awareness campaign focused on encouraging discussions about mental health in workplaces.
The campaign aims to increase both leaders’ and employees’ knowledge and ability to combat the stigma surrounding mental health issues in the professional sphere. By doing so, it aspires to strengthen individuals’ connections to the labor market and provide daily support for those living with mental disorders.
This initiative seeks to disseminate the leadership guide to supervisors tasked with managing staff, equipping them with the tools to promote transparency about mental health conditions. The target is to help leaders engage in meaningful dialogues with their teams, ultimately reducing mental distress and enhancing the retention and inclusion of employees experiencing mental health challenges.
Since its inception in 2011, the national initiative “EN AF OS” has been dedicated to destigmatizing mental illness in Denmark, advocating for an end to discrimination and exclusion of individuals who have experienced mental health challenges. The initiative is supported at the national level by the Danish Health Authority and operates regionally through PsykInfo.
The ongoing efforts by both the Danish Health Authority and the “EN AF OS” initiative reflect a profound commitment to improving mental health literacy and creating supportive work environments. As mental health continues to affect so many workers, fostering understanding and proactive support remains essential.
The findings from this recent survey underline the pressing need for organizations to become more informed and engaged in mental health issues. By sharing informative resources and encouraging open dialogue, Denmark can take significant strides toward a more inclusive workplace where everyone, regardless of their mental health status, can thrive.
