What Steps Can Tech Companies Take to Improve Mental Health

The Impact of Mental Health in the Tech Industry

The information and communication technology sector is notorious for its high-pressure working conditions. The COVID-19 pandemic has only amplified the importance of mental health, particularly within the tech industry, where depression rates are alarmingly high.

A study by the British Interactive Media Association in the UK found that tech professionals were five times more likely to experience depression compared to the general population. Shockingly, 52 percent of individuals within this industry have grappled with anxiety or depression at some point.

In this digital age, the tech sector boasts one of the largest workforces, with over 53.2 million full-time employees in 2019, projected to reach 62 million this year. Given this landscape, it is crucial to pinpoint the workplace factors that impact mental health and take proactive, human-centric measures to enhance the daily lives of employees.

Firsthand Insights from Arcanys

At Arcanys, a global IT company, we've witnessed the detrimental effects of stress and the relentless demands of high-pressure roles. Addressing stress and anxiety at their onset is essential, and creating a non-judgmental space for employees to share their mental health experiences is equally vital.

Eight Strategies to Foster Psychological Safety for Tech Teams

1. Invite Open Feedback, Embrace Transparency, and Foster Safe Conversations: Regularly solicit input and create an environment where people can openly express themselves, knowing their feelings will be respected and kept confidential.
2. Respect and Celebrate Cultural Diversity, Champion Inclusivity: Recognize and celebrate cultural differences, particularly in international teams. Challenge gender dynamics and actively promote inclusivity.
3. Swiftly Address Issues and Prioritize Resolution: Approach conflicts or misunderstandings transparently and promptly. Initiate regular check-ins to prevent issues from escalating.
4. Offer Accessible Mental Health Resources: Provide support tools catering to all employees, understanding the unique challenges faced by individuals. Extend insurance to cover employee dependents.
5. Emphasize Holistic Well-being: Advocate practices like proper sleep, nutrition, and exercise. Consider offering in-house wellness resources, such as nutritionists and fitness facilities.
6. Conquer Remote Work Challenges: As remote work becomes increasingly prevalent, establish strong communication channels within teams and implement strategies to combat isolation.
7. Nurture Community Engagement: Create virtual and physical communities for employees to connect beyond work. Encourage participation in company events, even for those located in distant regions.
8. Measure and Share Success Stories: Track the impact of mental health initiatives and share tangible results, such as retention rates, online reviews, and client feedback.

Leaders' Role in Destigmatizing Mental Health

Leaders in the tech industry must recognize their role in destigmatizing mental health. Initiating the conversation and committing to the well-being of all team members can have a profound impact on the organization.

Prioritizing mental health isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. It's about fostering a culture of listening, openness, and empathy, where communication is valued, trust is earned, and diversity is celebrated. This is an ongoing endeavor that shapes the success of the team and the industry at large.

About the Author:

Frederic Joye's passion for technology and entrepreneurship led to the co-founding of Arcanys.