Mental Health at Work: Building a ‘Listen Up’ culture

By BYF Psychology Team

Mental health in the workplace is a topic that we’ve been hearing a lot about lately. No doubt, we’ve come a long way, collectively in advocating, and spreading awareness about its significance. A mental health concern is more accepted in today’s workplace as opposed to a decade ago, and that in itself speaks volumes. However, the concept of mental health in the context of the workplace remains one that’s deeply misunderstood. 
 
As part of the ongoing dialogue on mental health at work, I’ve frequently come across a phrase that’s turned out to be quite the buzzword- “speak-up culture”. A lot of conversations on the importance of speaking up at work have been had, and ways to facilitate the safety to speak up have also been touched upon. However, we seem to have missed an important factor in the equation- the art of listening.  
 
This throws light on how we often build narratives and lay more emphasis on the act of speaking up, rather than the act of inspired change. A speak-up culture can only exist in an environment where there is hope for change. An openness to listen, a culture of accountability.  
 
The three main elements of a thriving work culture are: the safety to speak-up, the openness to listen up and the accountability to follow up. Without the latter, speaking up can seem to many as what’s referred to as CLM- a career limiting move. This creates the perception of well-being at work to be merely a pipe dream or a buzzword to many employees. 
 
Much like the world we live in, it only creates the illusion of freedom where people can speak up for their cause, and share their opinions through social media or in their own time, but their voices are seldom heard by the people who hold the power to make a difference.  
 
A collaborative and positive work culture is built through ongoing dialogue, not a totalitarian monologue. A speak-up culture is to employee engagement, what a listen-up culture is to leadership development. A balanced approach stands to benefit both the employee and the employer. 
 
66% of employees believe their company’s culture positively impacts their work every day! 
 
When an employee speaks up, chances are, they are already fighting the stigma and making a courageous display of vulnerability. The most empowering thing we can all do, is listen up, check-in and follow up. 
 
On this World Mental Health day, let’s make an attempt to go beyond just a speak-up culture and lean into listening to each other as well.