Fostering a Culture of Care: Mental Health Inclusivity in the Workplace

Why Mental Health Matters in Today’s Workplace

Mental health is about more than just how we perform; it’s about how we cope with life, how we connect with others, and how we feel day to day. Everyone deserves to feel respected, supported, and valued at work – not just for what they do, but for who they are.

With one in five New Zealanders experiencing a mental health challenge each year, employers have a responsibility to create spaces where people can be themselves, access help when they need it, and know that their wellbeing matters. This isn’t about squeezing more output from staff – it’s about building a culture of empathy, trust, and belonging.

At Adecco, we believe that when people are well, they can thrive – in all aspects of life. When businesses lead with care, they don’t just build better teams – they help shape a better Aotearoa.

It Starts with a Genuine Commitment to Wellbeing

Investing in mental health support isn’t just a strategy to improve work among staff – it’s the right thing to do. When people feel safe and supported, they’re more likely to stay, grow, and contribute to a positive team culture. But most importantly, they’re more likely to feel like they belong.

Workplaces that centre wellbeing in their values – rather than viewing it as a performance tool – create environments where people feel comfortable being themselves. That’s where true inclusion begins.

Our article on Embedding Corporate Social Responsibility explores how businesses that prioritise social good, including mental health, build stronger relationships with their people and their communities.

Recognising Early Warning Signs

Disengagement, burnout, absenteeism, and conflict can be early indicators of declining mental health. Managers should be trained to spot the signs and offer support early. Proactive conversations can prevent small issues from becoming crises.

Start with Open, Everyday Conversations

Fostering a psychologically safe workplace starts with normalising honest conversations. Simple check-ins like “Are you OK?” can lead to powerful change. Leaders who share their own challenges and model vulnerability create a culture of trust.

In our article RU OK? A simple question and conversation are powerful steps in helping someone’s mental wellbeing. It’s a reminder that everyone can play a role in creating safer, more supportive work environments.

Equip Your People with the Right Tools

Offer your people regular access to training, workshops, and resources. Mental health education particularly for people leaders – empowers staff to identify issues and provide early support.

Our Balancing Work and Wellbeing guide outlines practical strategies for promoting healthy habits in the workplace, including tools for managing stress and restoring energy throughout the workday.

Create Policies that Reflect Real Lives

In today’s work setting, flexible work has become a requirement for businesses to have. From remote work options to flexible start and finish times, modern employers need to build policies that support work-life balance.

Provide Access to Professional Support

Give employees access to confidential Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) and digital mental health services. These resources are lifelines for staff facing challenges and show your commitment to wellbeing beyond surface level.

Wellbeing doesn’t have to come at a high cost – small initiatives like team mindfulness sessions or subsidised mental health apps can make a meaningful difference.

Build Wellbeing into Your Onboarding and Culture

It’s important that mental health support starts from the moment someone joins your business. Set the tone by including wellbeing resources in your induction process and continue it with regular one-on-ones and access to peer support.

Review, Measure and Improve

The best strategies are dynamic. Track engagement, EAP usage, absenteeism, and feedback through surveys and pulse checks. Then refine your policies based on what your people need most.

Need help holding onto your top talent? Read our guide to Retaining Top Talent in 2025 for actionable ways to build loyalty in a competitive market.

Partner with Adecco

Adecco New Zealand is proud to be a recruitment partner that goes beyond filling roles – we help businesses shape healthier, more inclusive workplaces. Whether you’re looking to hire top talent, build flexible policies, or improve staff retention, we’re here to help.

Explore more insights on our news and resources hub or get in touch with your local Adecco office to discuss how we can support your workforce strategy in 2025 and beyond.