Organizations worldwide have begun paying attention to mental health. The leadership teams at more and more companies now recognize that supporting employees’ mental well-being is not just ethical: it also provides the company with a major strategic advantage. This recognition has caused a significant evolution in the role of human resources (HR) professionals.
The latest example of changing priorities for HR professionals was spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Gartner, the pandemic affected employees’ demands for workplaces and jobs. They now seek remote work flexibility, employers that share their values, employee-centered initiatives and more. As a result, HR professionals today must be more sensitive to concerns such as work-life balance, burnout, job stress and many other negative influences on employee mental health.
The connection between mental health and HR is becoming increasingly important, making a background in psychology a key competitive advantage for anyone pursuing a role in HR. Human resources professionals focused on building a positive, productive work environment need a solid understanding of the important role mental wellness plays in the workplace and how it impacts both employees and the organization. Individuals can gain this foundational knowledge in the Southeastern Oklahoma State University online Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Psychology – Comprehensive program.
How Human Resources Job Responsibilities Have Evolved
Mental health directly impacts employee productivity, satisfaction and organizational success. Employees who struggle with their mental health take more sick time, are less productive and are more likely to leave the organization. At the same time, employees who feel supported in their mental wellness are more likely to be engaged, motivated and committed to their work.
HR responsibilities involve employee mental health. However, this has not always been the case. Traditional HR roles have mainly focused on managing recruitment, payroll and policy compliance. Today, HR professionals are key players in creating a supportive organizational culture that prioritizes mental wellness. These new responsibilities include promoting workplace mental wellness through a range of programs and initiatives.
Many organizations today realize the return on investment that employee investment has. According to Bloomberg Media, companies excel when they invest in programs that lower absenteeism, reduce turnover, and increase job satisfaction and organizational commitment. These initiatives typically include covering the cost of counseling through employee benefits or EAPs, organizing wellness programs, training managers to identify and address employees’ mental health concerns, and creating a workplace culture where conversations about mental health are normal. By championing mental health, HR professionals have a unique opportunity to establish a positive work environment that benefits employees and the organization.
Integrating Psychological Principles Into Human Resources Management
An education in psychology, like the online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology program from Southeastern Oklahoma State University, teaches many principles and evidence-based practices that HR professionals can use as essential tools for cultivating a mentally healthy workplace. HR professionals with a background in psychology can develop programs that encourage open communication about mental health, reduce stigma and provide access to mental healthcare resources. They can also implement strategies that focus on building resilience, such as mindfulness training and stress management workshops.
This type of initiative supports individual employees and contributes to the overall well-being and success of the organization by creating a culture of care and support. Understanding psychological theories and models can also help HR professionals resolve conflict, manage team dynamics and develop the next generation of leaders.
Psychological insights also give HR professionals the knowledge to address underlying issues that affect an employee’s mental health and overall job satisfaction. This knowledge allows them to tailor interventions that meet the individual needs of that employee, promoting a more personalized approach to mental wellness in the workplace.
Why a Background in Psychology Benefits HR Professionals
Studying psychology gives HR professionals a deep understanding of human behavior, motivation and emotions. This knowledge is valuable when addressing the complex mental health challenges that arise in the workplace. With a background in psychology, HR professionals are better equipped to identify early signs of mental health issues, offer appropriate support and create a work environment that promotes mental wellness.
Southeastern’s online B.A. in Psychology program equips students with the knowledge they need to advocate for mental health awareness and prepares them to implement resilience-building initiatives that positively impact employees and the organization. The program also emphasizes how to apply psychological principles to real-world scenarios, preparing graduates to effectively navigate the new complexities of human resource management.
Leverage Psychology Insights in Your Career
The connection between mental health and human resources is quickly expanding. As HR professionals take on greater responsibility for promoting mental wellness in the workplace, a background in psychology becomes increasingly valuable.
By integrating psychological principles into HR practices, professionals can create a supportive and mentally healthy work environment that enhances employee well-being and organizational effectiveness. Southeastern’s program offers the education and skills needed to make a meaningful impact in an HR role.
Learn more about Southeastern’s online Bachelor of Arts in Psychology – Comprehensive program.