BIPOC Mental Health Month - Creating Healthy Workplaces
Formally recognized in June 2008, Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month was established with a crucial goal in mind—to raise awareness about the distinct challenges that underrepresented groups face regarding mental illness in the United States. Bebe Moore Campbell, an American author, journalist, teacher, and mental health advocate, dedicated her life to shedding light on the mental health needs of the Black community and other marginalized communities. In the spirit of carrying forward Bebe Moore Campbell's visionary work, we strive to develop resources aimed at addressing and supporting the specific needs of BIPOC individuals.
BIPOC Mental Health Month in the Workplace
Employees of color have unique needs often related to intergenerational health inequality, trauma and stress. In saying this, creating healthy workplaces is becoming increasingly important, especially as we continue to face unprecedented levels of stress and burnout in the modern workforce.
Read below for some tips on how to create a healthier workplace for your BIPOC employees, a webinar opportunity to share, and resources from Mental Health America.
Tips to create a healthier workplace for your BIPOC employees:
Prioritize mental health
Mental health is just as important as physical health, so make sure your workplace culture supports both. Consider offering culturally-informed services and strategies for BIPOC professionals including workshops, programs, trainings and mental health classes taught by instructors of color.
Download the 2023 BIPOC Mental Health Month Toolkit for more valuable resources.
Foster a positive work environment
A positive work environment is essential to fostering a positive work environment that supports the well-being of BIPOC employees. Place emphasis on cultivating a culture of respect, kindness, and positivity within the workplace. Recognize and celebrate successes, express genuine appreciation for hard work, and actively create opportunities for team building. By prioritizing a positive work environment BIPOC employees can feel more included and supported in their work environment.
Offer flexible schedules
BIPOC employees often face additional challenges in the workplace due to microaggressions and discrimination, which can contribute to increased stress and burnout. Recognizing this, it becomes crucial to offer flexible schedules or remote work options to support their well-being. By providing these accommodations, BIPOC employees can have more control over their work-life balance, helping to alleviate the impact of race related stress. Creating an inclusive and supportive environment through flexible work arrangements demonstrates a commitment to addressing the specific needs of BIPOC employees and promoting their overall mental health and satisfaction.
Encourage movement
Sitting for long periods can lead to a host of health problems, including poor posture, back pain, and even cardiovascular disease. Encourage and prioritize movement among your workforce, ensuring BIPOC employees feel supported in their holistic well-being. Consider implementing measures such as providing standing desks, promoting walking meetings, or offering yoga classes to create an inclusive and supportive space.
Stay hydrated with this collection of mindful movement and meditations to hydrate your employees through your day.
Mental Health America Webinar Opportunity
We Take Care of Us: BIPOC Led Community Spaces Providing Healing and Support
Tuesday, July 18, 2023 1 p.m. ET / 10 a.m. PT
Join Radiance and Mental Health America in celebration of Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month for the second of a two-part webinar series on culture, community, and mental health. This panel-style discussion will focus on the importance of safe, supportive, culturally vibrant BIPOC-led spaces within our communities. Throughout the discussion, we will explore how to find or create community spaces that promote healing, provide mental health support, and accept identity and culture.
Mental Health America BIPOC Mental Health Toolkit
Mental Health America’s 2023 BIPOC Mental Health Toolkit focuses on Culture, Community, & Connection. It addresses the impact of the environment on mental health, particularly for BIPOC communities. Despite historical trauma and displacement, BIPOC individuals continue to thrive. The toolkit offers free resources, including factsheets, worksheets, and advocacy tips. Mental Health America aims to close the mental health equity gap and invites you to download and share the toolkit to support and inspire BIPOC communities.
In conclusion, creating a healthy workplace requires a commitment to both physical and mental health. By prioritizing movement, mental health, positivity, and flexibility, you can create a workplace that supports the well-being of your team.
We are here to support your employees and teams. Schedule a meeting with Rooted in Radiance to champion your well-being journey.
Check in: are you hydrated?
