2020 has been challenging for all Australians.
Across this great southern land, bushfires, floods and in particular, the global COVID-19 pandemic has had an undoubtable impact on each and every one of us.
One area in particular is the retail sector.
COVID-19 has had, and continues to have, a significant impact on the mental health and wellbeing of Australian workers. The National Mental Health Commission is encouraging businesses and workplaces across retail in Australia to adopt new Mentally Healthy Workplace guides to support the mental health and wellbeing of Australian workers and businesses during, and after, COVID-19.
Good mental health in the workplace is just as important as good physical health. The National Retail Association has espoused this viewpoint throughout the year, developing resources and hosting webinars aimed at creating mentally healthy, and resilient, workplaces.
All workplaces can take some simple steps to look after mental health during COVID-19. That’s why the Mentally Healthy Workplace Alliance has helped to create a set of resources to help Australians navigate the mental health challenges of COVID-19 in their workplaces. These resources have been developed with three key audiences in mind, sole traders, small business and medium to large businesses.
They have been created by experts to provide practical tips and advice on helping employers and employees look out for the signs that someone may not be coping and assist them to find help when they need it.
You don’t have to be a mental health expert to spot signs that someone around you might need extra support,” said Lucy Brogden AM, Chair of the Mentally Healthy Workplace Alliance.
“Talking about mental health and creating a culture of trust and openness in the workplace can reduce stigma and make it easier for people to reach out and seek support when they need.”
The resources also help workplaces understand their obligations in regard to the mental health and wellbeing of their workforce.
“Making workplaces mentally safe is an equal priority to making workplaces physically safe.”
The resources also include a guide on how you can have conversations about mental health and wellbeing in the workplace in a safe and supporting way.
You can download the resources at by clicking the button below.
DOWNLOAD THE RESOURCES