Why early detection of workplace distress is a game-changer for HR

As mental health continues to take centre stage in organisational priorities, HR leaders are exploring diverse strategies to foster a supportive work environment.

An HRM Asia poll asked professionals which aspect HR should focus on to enhance engagement and productivity. The results revealed a growing consensus on the importance of flexible work options (34%), access to mental health resources (26%), fostering mental health dialogue (24%), and providing training to spot distress (16%).

Among the respondents, Stephanie Cruz, Manager, Talent and Development at Yum! Asia Franchise, advocated for training to spot distress. For Cruz, this approach is foundational to creating a culture where mental health is proactively managed.

Cruz emphasised that while the concept of mental wellbeing is easy to grasp, implementing it effectively requires a robust framework. She believes training is essential to ensure managers and team leaders—referred to as “activators”—are adequately prepared.

She told HRM Asia, “Activators need to be equipped to manage this fairly and sensitively to do this the right way. Thus, proper funding and attention to adequate training are essential. The ability to spot distress or a potential issue at the onset is a vital capability to mitigate risks and apply the right support strategy.”

She further advocates for a fundamental shift in how employees are perceived. She explained that prioritising mental wellbeing “deletes the line between work and life” and emphasised treating individuals not just as employees but as human beings.

“When our people discern that the organisation truly cares for them and views them as ‘human beings first, employees second’, it improves the narrative of work-life harmony from a metrics perspective to a ‘human’ perspective,” she said. “It’s simply the right thing to do.”

READ MORE: Bridging the gap: Why organisations should prioritise mental health

This human-centric approach, according to Cruz, has far-reaching benefits. Organisations that genuinely commit to supporting their employees’ wellbeing can expect improved loyalty, engagement, and productivity.

While flexible work options and resource access are popular strategies, training to spot distress uniquely positions organisations to prevent issues before they escalate. This proactive capability not only safeguards employee wellbeing but also equips managers with the skills to handle sensitive situations effectively.

“Ultimately, proper knowledge safeguards both the employee and the incident managers,” Cruz concluded. Such preparedness ensures that organisations can respond with empathy and precision, fostering a work environment where employees feel valued and supported.