Creating a positive work environment that all employees enjoy can help reduce work-related stress and promotes a mentally healthy workforce. The following suggestions can help companies create positive work environments:

• Recognize and reward employees for their contributions to the company
• Invest in professional training and career development programs for each employee
• Offer benefits that promote work-life balance, such as flexible schedules and work-from-home opportunities
• Encourage employees to build strong professional relationships with employee engagement and team-building activities
• Welcome employees to contribute ideas, provide feedback and take part in decision-making processes related to their work

Research suggests that creating a positive work environment and promoting and supporting a mentally healthy workforce results in:

• Increased productivity rates
• Increased economic contributions
• Completion of higher-quality work
• Lower rates of absenteeism
• Improved employee engagement
• Increased employee retention and loyalty
• Reduced employer and employee healthcare costs
• Better working relationships between employees and leadership
• Improved ability to empathize with customers and co-workers