Navigating Mental Health in Today’s Workforce: A LEARN Behavioral Perspective
By Maggie Ruvoldt, Chief Human Resources Officer
In our rapidly evolving world, the nature of work has transformed dramatically. In the past few years, prioritizing mental health and destigmatizing conversations around support have brought about progress. This shift has brought to light the critical issue of mental health in the workplace, particularly for those in high-stress professions like ours at LEARN Behavioral.
As Chief Human Resources Officer at LEARN, I’ve seen firsthand the emotional and physical toll this noble profession can take on our staff, including behavioral analysts, clinicians, behavior technicians, and our invaluable staff in roles across the company.
The Rise of Workplace Burnout
Research indicates that workplace burnout is becoming increasingly prevalent across various sectors, marked by symptoms such as emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a diminished sense of personal accomplishment.
For those in the behavioral health field, these challenges are compounded by the emotionally charged nature of our work, making it imperative for organizations like ours to prioritize the mental well-being of our team.
Understanding the Impact
Burnout not only affects the individual experiencing it but also has a ripple effect, impacting their colleagues, the quality of care provided, and ultimately, the families we serve.
Symptoms can include chronic fatigue, anxiety, depression, and a decrease in job performance, which can lead to higher turnover rates and a reduction in overall workplace morale.
LEARN's Proactive Approach to Mental Health
At LEARN Behavioral, we recognize the importance of addressing these challenges head-on. We have several key resources aimed at supporting our staff’s mental health and well-being:
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Our EAP provides confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals, and follow-up services to help employees manage both personal and work-related problems.
Caregiving Network: Understanding the demands of caregiving in the midst of a growing shortage of childcare, we offer access to resources for finding caregivers through Care.com for children, adults, or pets, easing one aspect of our employees' lives.
24/7 Therapy Services: Through partnerships with platforms like Talkspace, our team has access to dedicated therapists any time, anywhere, making sure they have the support they need when they need it.
Library of Well-Being Videos: Our collection of videos from UnitedHealthcare covers more than 70 health-related topics, providing valuable information on everything from mental health to physical wellness.
Self-Care App: The AbleTo app connects our staff with coaches and offers self-care resources and strategies, helping them manage the demands of life more effectively.
A Human Resources Perspective
From a human resources standpoint, investing in these resources is not just about enhancing productivity. It’s about valuing our employees as individuals with unique needs and challenge—just as we do our clients. It’s a testament to our commitment to creating a supportive, compassionate work environment where everyone feels empowered to seek help and take care of their mental health.
As we navigate the complexities of today’s workforce, it’s clear that mental health must be a priority. At LEARN Behavioral, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this effort, offering our team the support and resources they need to thrive, both professionally and personally.
By acknowledging the challenges and taking proactive steps to address them, we’re fostering a culture of well-being that benefits not only our employees but the families we serve.
For those in the behavioral health sector experiencing burnout or mental health challenges, remember, you’re not alone. Resources are available, and it’s OK to seek help.