Mental health is now a central issue in today’s workforce. Across Australia, more employees are opening up about the challenges they face. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, more than 42% of Australians aged 16 to 85 have experienced a mental health condition at some point in their lives. Given how much time we spend at work, the workplace can either support recovery or become a source of further stress making mental health workplace adjustments a critical part of any supportive work environment.
As an employer, you play a vital role in creating a mentally healthy and inclusive workplace. Implementing reasonable workplace adjustments helps you meet your legal responsibilities, support your team’s wellbeing and improve overall business performance.
Why Mental Health in the Workplace Matters
Mental health affects how people think, feel and perform. When unmanaged, it can lead to fatigue, poor concentration, disengagement or absence from work. If left unsupported, mental health conditions contribute to reduced productivity, higher staff turnover and workplace conflict.
Conversely, when employers invest in mental health, the results are powerful. Teams become more engaged, supportive and resilient. Staff retention improves. Performance rises.
Supporting mental health at work is not just the right thing to do it is also a smart business decision.
Legal and Financial Incentives to Support Mental Health
In Australia, you have a legal obligation under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 to make reasonable adjustments for employees or applicants with disabilities, which includes mental health conditions.
You must consider adjustments when:
- You are aware or could reasonably be expected to know an employee is experiencing a mental health condition
- An employee requests support or changes
- Mental health impacts their ability to perform core duties
- Absences or performance concerns are linked to a condition
Beyond compliance, supporting employee mental health makes financial sense. A report estimates that untreated mental health conditions cost Australian businesses $10.9 billion each year through:
What Are Reasonable Workplace Adjustments?
Reasonable adjustments are practical changes to the work environment, role design or workplace policies that enable individuals with mental health conditions to perform their duties effectively and safely.
These adjustments aim to:
- Remove barriers to employment
- Support existing employees managing mental health
- Improve access to recruitment and promotion
- Foster an inclusive, supportive workplace culture
Often, these adjustments are simple, low-cost and beneficial for everyone not just those experiencing mental health conditions.
Practical Examples of Workplace Adjustments for Mental Health
Implementing mental health-friendly practices does not need to be complex. Below are effective and achievable adjustments that employers across all industries can apply:
Flexible Work Hours
Allow staff to vary their start and finish times. This flexibility supports individuals who attend medical appointments, need recovery time in the mornings or work better at specific times of day.
Remote or Hybrid Work Options
Offering part-time or full-time remote work reduces exposure to stressors like commuting, noise or social pressure. It also helps employees manage energy levels and maintain work-life balance.
Quiet or Low-Stimulation Workspaces
Create access to calm spaces where employees can decompress, take short breaks or manage sensory overload. Even a small room set aside for quiet time can make a huge difference.
Ergonomic Adjustments
Provide supportive chairs, adjustable desks and appropriate lighting to prevent physical discomfort that can exacerbate stress. Ergonomic comfort supports mental wellbeing too.
Mental Health Leave or Wellbeing Days
Allow employees to take occasional mental health days without judgement. This not only supports recovery but also signals that wellbeing is a workplace priority.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
Give employees access to professional counselling or coaching through a confidential service. These programs support early intervention and help employees navigate challenges before they escalate.
Mental Health Training for Managers and Teams
Equip your staff with the knowledge to spot early signs of mental distress. Training helps foster a culture of awareness, empathy and peer support.
How to Implement Adjustments Effectively
Making workplace adjustments is most effective when it is done collaboratively. Here’s how you can ensure your adjustments truly make a difference:
Start the Conversation
Create a safe, confidential environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their needs. Ask what’s working, what’s not and how you can support them better.
Co-Design the Solution
No two individuals experience mental health the same way. Tailor adjustments to the individual’s role, personality and preferences. Involve them in the planning process to build trust and empowerment.
Document the Plan
Keep a record of agreed-upon changes to ensure follow-through and accountability. This also helps guide future check-ins or role changes.
Review and Adapt
Schedule regular reviews to assess whether the adjustment remains helpful. Be flexible circumstances and needs can change over time.
The Business Benefits of Supporting Mental Health
Beyond compliance, supporting mental health at work creates real business value. By building inclusive and flexible workplaces, you position your business for long-term success.
Benefits include:
- Increased employee engagement and productivity
- Reduced absenteeism and turnover
- Stronger team morale and workplace culture
- Enhanced brand reputation as an employer of choice
- Improved recruitment and retention outcomes
Organisations that lead in this space often find that a small investment in support yields a lasting return in performance and loyalty.
Final Thoughts
Creating a mentally healthy workplace starts with one step: acknowledging the importance of mental health. From there, implementing reasonable workplace adjustments shows your team that they matter and that your organisation values inclusion, flexibility and wellbeing.
Supporting mental health is not about grand gestures. It is about everyday actions, open communication and thoughtful change. When you remove barriers and provide support, you help your people and your business thrive. At Talenthub Recruitment, we help employers across Australia recruit, retain and support people in inclusive ways.
Source: https://www.abs.gov.au/