Prioritising mental health

With a reported 56% of accountants suffering with stress and burnout¹, it’s become crucial for businesses to prioritise mental health concerns in order to create a supportive workplace.

 

Prioritising mental health in accountancy practices: creating a supportive workplace culture

The world of accounting is renowned for its demanding nature, long hours and high-pressure work environments. As a result, mental health concerns often arise among accountancy professionals. Research by CABA charity in 2022 reported that 56% of accountants are suffering with stress and burnout, compared with 41% across other industries.² It is therefore crucial for accountancy practices to recognise the significance of mental health and take proactive steps to create a supportive workplace culture. Here we explore the importance of mental health in the workplace, its impact on productivity and employee well-being, and provide practical approaches for creating a mentally healthy environment within accountancy practices.

Understanding the impact of mental health on accountancy professionals

Accountancy professionals face unique challenges that can contribute to mental health issues. The demanding workload, tight deadlines, and constant pressure to meet clients' expectations can take a toll on individuals' well-being. This can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout, which can ultimately lead to reduced productivity and increased time off. Recognising and addressing these challenges is crucial for the overall success and sustainability of both individuals and the business as a whole.

Tips for creating a supportive workplace culture:

1. Encourage open communication: Create an environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns. Try to encourage open conversations, provide confidential channels for seeking support, and promote a culture of empathy and understanding amongst your team.
   
   
2. Mental health training: Invest in mental health training programmes for managers and employees alike. Educate staff members about common mental health conditions, their signs and symptoms, and strategies for providing support and seeking help. This training can help create a compassionate and informed work environment.
   
   
3. Flexible work arrangements: Consider offering flexible work arrangements where possible, such as remote work options, flexible hours, or compressed working weeks. These options can provide employees with a better work-life balance, reduce stress levels, and improve overall well-being.
   
   
4. Manage workloads and deadlines: Promote realistic workloads and set achievable deadlines. Encourage leaders to have open discussions about workload distribution, identify potential issues, and make necessary adjustments to ensure a healthier work pace.

5. Encourage breaks and self-care: Encourage employees to take regular breaks, including lunch breaks, to recharge and de-stress. Promote self-care activities such as physical exercise, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques both in the office and when working from home.
   
   
6. Support Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs): EAP providers offer confidential counselling and support services to employees. They can provide professional guidance and assistance for managing personal and work-related challenges, enhancing mental well-being.
   
   
7. Promote work-life balance: You can encourage work-life balance by setting clear boundaries and discouraging excessive overtime. Encourage employees to use their annual leave and provide adequate cover to avoid burnout.
   
   
8. Destigmatise mental health: Educating employees about mental health can help break down the stigma surrounding it. Encourage discussions around mental health in team meetings or through awareness campaigns. This can create a more inclusive workplace culture where people feel accepted and comfortable.
   In conclusion, prioritising mental health in accountancy practices is essential for creating a supportive and productive workplace culture. By implementing strategies that encourage open communication, support work-life balance, and promote self-care, practices can help alleviate the stress and challenges faced by their employees. A mentally healthy workforce can lead to increased productivity, employee satisfaction, and long-term success for both individuals and the business as a whole.

In conclusion, prioritising mental health in accountancy practices is essential for creating a supportive and productive workplace culture. By implementing strategies that encourage open communication, support work-life balance, and promote self-care, practices can help alleviate the stress and challenges faced by their employees. A mentally healthy workforce can lead to increased productivity, employee satisfaction, and long-term success for both individuals and the business as a whole.