Emotional resilience, the ability to bounce back from challenges and adversity, is a vital trait for both individuals and organisations. One way to improve emotional resilience is through the implementation of peer support, lived experience, and proactive wellbeing initiatives.
Peer support is a form of support where individuals with similar experiences provide support and understanding to one another. Lived experience refers to the knowledge and insight that individuals gain from going through personal struggles. Both of these approaches can be incredibly effective in improving emotional resilience, as they provide a sense of validation and understanding that can be hard to find elsewhere.
A study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found that employees who participated in a workplace peer support program reported improved mental health, increased job satisfaction, and even increased productivity.
It’s important to remember that seeking out peer support at work is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength and resilience. By connecting with and supporting each other, employees can not only improve their own mental health but also create a more supportive and positive work environment.
Proactive wellbeing initiatives, such as stress management programs and mental health first aid training, can also play a vital role in improving emotional resilience. These initiatives can help individuals develop the skills and knowledge they need to take control of their mental health and wellbeing, and can provide a supportive and non-judgmental space in which to do so.
In addition to improving emotional resilience, these approaches can also have a positive impact on the culture of an organization. A culture that values and prioritizes the mental health and wellbeing of its employees can lead to increased productivity, collaboration, engagement, and retention.
It’s worth noting that peer support programs should be voluntary, and employees should feel comfortable in participating. Moreover, it’s important to communicate clearly the limits of peer support and the importance of seeking help from professional if needed.
HR professionals can play a vital role in implementing these approaches by providing the resources and support needed to make them successful. Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) can also be a valuable resource for employees, as they provide access to counselling and other professional support services.
Research has also shown that implementing initiatives to promote emotional resilience and support mental health can lead to a positive return on investment (ROI) for businesses. A study by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) found that for every $1 invested in mental health treatment, there is a return of $4 in improved health outcomes and productivity.
Overall, implementing peer support, lived experience, and proactive wellbeing initiatives can be an effective way to improve emotional resilience, culture, productivity, collaboration, engagement, and retention within an organisation. This can help to create a more supportive and compassionate environment for everyone, and can play a crucial role in the success of the organisation as a whole.