building strong minds: digital tools for mental health support
A report by The Engagement Institute reports disengaged employees cost U.S. companies up to $550 billion per year. In the construction industry, disengagement can have significant impacts on productivity, safety and overall worker morale. Additionally, our workforce is already facing immense challenges — long hours, physically demanding work and high-pressure deadlines among them, which negatively impact mental health.
Although conversations surrounding mental health are becoming more commonplace, it remains an often-overlooked aspect of well-being in the skilled trades. For employers, a failure to provide the mental health and well-being support that workers are seeking could harm future talent recruitment and retention.
Fortunately, mental health apps are an easily accessible tool offering support and resources customized to the unique needs of the hardworking craftsmen and women of our trade. The following are a few of options available for download in the App Store or on Google Play.
APPS TO HELP WITH YOUR MENTAL HEALTH
MOODFIT
Moodfit is based on the relationship between a person’s thoughts, feelings and behaviors. The app helps users identify patterns in their mood, set daily mental health goals and receive reminders to stay on track. It also provides educational content on managing stress, overcoming procrastination and building resilience, along with easy-to-use tools, including a mood journal, breathwork and more.
*Moodfit regularly partners with EAP programs and trade associations, among others. Request more information at https://www.getmoodfit.com/organization.
BETTERHELP
BetterHelp is the largest online therapy platform in the world, connecting users to more than 20,000 licensed therapists for virtual counseling. It offers text, phone and video sessions, giving users convenient access from anywhere, anytime. BetterHelp provides professional support for issues like anxiety, depression and relationship challenges. The platform cost is based on location, source, preferences and therapist availability, and is recognized as an eligible expense by most HSA/FSA providers.
LEARN MORE HERE
TALKSPACE
This app is helpful for anyone looking for a wide range of mental health services and resources. It connects users to the confidential support of a licensed therapist right from the comfort of your own device, with unlimited messaging, live video sessions and specialized therapy for individuals, couples and teens. Talkspace also works with major insurance providers, and anyone can get started with a free seven-day trial.
LEARN MORE HERE
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health, but employee engagement and well-being initiatives are imperative to the strategic vision of your company. Protecting your most valuable asset (your workforce) will help ensure your employees — and in turn, your organization — continue to thrive.