Employee Mental Health Must Remain a Focus Among Anxiety-Inducing Layoffs

Biotech companies are going through some difficulties, with many companies downsizing and reshaping their workforce. These activities can hit employees hard, and their mental health can suffer. Leaders must ensure they provide wellness and health programs that can support colleagues with mental health challenges.

The Labor Day weekend in the US signals a return to work for many who have spent the past few weeks enjoying their summer vacation. This time away from work is often an opportunity to recharge and enjoy undivided time with friends or family and partake in some self-care.  

Our focus on rebalancing ourselves is often influenced by the sense that we’re stretched physically and mentally and that our state of health and wellness is depleted by sustained periods of intense working. In September, many people return to the workplace with renewed vigour and motivation, ready to give their best in the months ahead.

Of course, pursuing new medicines in the life sciences industry could be likened more to a marathon than a sprint. However, that long journey comprises many short intervals that can trouble a company and threaten its sustainability. Unless you have been cossetted away on a desert island this summer, you will have seen news of at least one biotechnology company downsizing its employees as it seeks to preserve cash or reprioritise its operations. It is news that is growing more familiar in Europe and the US over recent months, as market conditions continue to afflict companies with various economic challenges.                                                                                                   

The implications of this downsizing on employees are wide-ranging. Every person who loses their job is directly impacted and personally affected. Losing your job is rarely viewed as a positive experience, and we can only wish for all those laid-off that they bounce back quickly. For those who remain, employers must recognise the unpleasantness of seeing valued colleagues let go and the anxiety levels this uncertainty over their own futures induces. Safety and security are significant factors in an employee’s outlook, and any threat to that tends to cause concern and elevated anxiety levels.

This destabilises the workplace culture and can seed growing employee mental health issues. Responsible employers must seek to actively address this challenge and nurture employee wellness and mental health during this difficult time. Some effective strategies for doing this include the following:

Open Communication

Effective communication is the foundation of any healthy workplace. Encourage open and honest conversations among your employees. Create a safe space where they can express their concerns and fears without fear of judgment or repercussions. Regularly check in with your team members to gauge their emotional well-being. This can be done through one-on-one meetings, surveys, or anonymous suggestion boxes.

Flexible Work Arrangements

Flexibility in work arrangements can make a world of difference in times of high anxiety. Consider offering remote work options or flexible hours to accommodate employees' needs. This flexibility allows them to manage their work-life balance better, reducing stress and anxiety associated with rigid schedules.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

Employee Assistance Programs are invaluable resources that provide confidential counselling and support services to employees facing personal or professional challenges. Ensure your workforce is aware of these programs and encourage them to utilise the available services when needed.

Mental Health Awareness Training

Invest in mental health awareness training for both managers and employees. Equip your staff with the tools to recognise signs of distress in themselves and their colleagues. Training can also help destigmatise mental health issues, making it easier for employees to seek help when necessary.

Encourage Regular Breaks

Promote a culture of taking regular breaks during the workday. Encourage employees to step away from their desks, go for a walk, or practice relaxation techniques. These short breaks can help alleviate stress and anxiety and improve focus and productivity.

Provide Resources and Information

Ensure that employees have easy access to mental health resources and information. Share articles, videos, and books on stress management and resilience-building. Create a dedicated section on your company's intranet or provide a list of external resources where employees can seek help and advice.

Foster a Supportive Environment

Build a supportive work environment where colleagues look out for each other. Encourage team bonding activities and initiatives that promote a sense of belonging. Employees who feel connected to their coworkers are more likely to seek support and share their concerns.

Lead by Example

Leaders and managers are crucial in setting the tone for workplace wellness. Lead by example in how you manage your own stress and mental health. Share your experiences and coping strategies with your team, which can help create an open and supportive atmosphere.

Recognise Achievements and Efforts

Acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of your employees, especially during challenging times. Regularly recognise their achievements and provide positive feedback. Feeling valued and appreciated can boost morale and resilience.

In challenging times when companies are confronting the realities of their situation, employees can be deeply affected. This impact is not always visible and would rarely be discussed by the individual experiencing the high anxiety. Employee wellness and mental health should always be at the forefront of any organisation's considerations, especially as it implements changes that closely affect people. By fostering a culture of open communication, flexibility, and support, employers can create a workplace where employees feel valued, understood, and empowered to manage their mental health effectively. Remember that investing in your employees' well-being is not just a moral imperative but also a smart business decision that can lead to increased productivity, reduced turnover, and a more positive workplace atmosphere.