If there’s one thing that’s become increasingly important in everyday life, it’s talking about mental health. While it is not something that’s been talked about often in relation to businesses across the U.S. — but that’s something the U.S. Department of Labor wants to change.
According to Mental Health America, just prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, 19.86% of adults experienced a mental illness — that equivalent to nearly 50 million Americans. Unfortunately, over half of adults with a mental illness do not receive treatments, which totals to over 27 million adults in the U.S. untreated for a mental illness.
The increasing prevalence of untreated mental illness as well as death by suicide, the Department of Labor is implementing an awareness campaign called “Mental Health at Work: What Can I Do?” with a note that everyone can promote mental wellness in the workplace.
“Today, one in five working-age Americans has a mental health condition. As America recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health-friendly workplaces will be more important than ever,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh in the release. “This timely public education campaign reminds us that we all have a role to play, and that we all benefit from flexible, supportive workplaces that promote good mental health.”
The video campaign features four cast members — a CEO, a manager, a co-worker and a person who identifies as having a mental health condition. All of them join to discuss how to better promote workplace wellbeing — from giving support to learning how to ask for assistance and accommodations.
While mental health might not be at the heart of your business, it’s never too late to start the discussion.
Mental Health in Agriculture
Just like every other industry, mental health issues are prevalent in agriculture as well. According to a survey from the American Farm Bureau Federation, a majority of farmers and farmworkers have financial issues, fear of losing the farm and farm or business problems — all that could impact grower’s mental health. However, only three in four adults say it is important to reduce stigma about mental health in the ag community.
But, it’s never too late to open up the discussion.
“When implementing mental health policies and practices, the best place to start is simply with education,” says Adrienne DeSutter, mental health specialist with the Farm State of Mind. “Take time to understand mental health in all forms, from learning about mental health conditions (like depression or anxiety) to being proactive players in managing stress. Creating a healthy work climate for your employees will be much more effective if you know more about the mental health you’re hoping to protect.”
When it comes down to it, DeSutter says keeping an eye on the health of your customers won’t just make your business better, it’ll make you better as well.
“Our rural communities rely on each other to thrive, and we can make a huge difference in each other’s health and safety simply by being vigilant,” she says. “Truly get to know your growers, pay attention to their normal behaviors, and don’t be afraid to reach out when something seems off. By taking a minute to listen — even when you don’t feel like you have the time — could change the dynamic of a person’s day or their life.”
Keep on top of the warning signs, which include change in routines or social activities, decline in the care of domestic animals, increase in illness, increase in accidents, decline in appearance, decreased interest in activities or events, and signs of stress could help save a customer or co-workers life.
Want more information on mental health? Check out:
How’s Your Mental Health, A Seed World Strategy Webinar & Podcast
Do More Ag Launches Course to Teach Mental Health Professionals About Ag
