Breaking the stigma: Encouraging mental health benefit utilization through peer sharing

Mental health has long been a taboo topic, shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding. Despite the increasing awareness and available resources, many individuals still hesitate to seek help due to societal judgments and personal fears. 

One effective way to combat this issue and encourage mental health benefit utilization is through peer sharing. Research shows that by fostering an environment where individuals feel comfortable discussing their mental health struggles and the resources that have helped them, we can break down barriers and promote a culture of openness and support.

The power of peer sharing

Peer sharing involves individuals discussing their personal experiences with mental health, including the challenges they’ve faced and the benefits of seeking professional help. This approach has several advantages:

1. Normalizing mental health issues: When people hear others openly talk about their mental health struggles, it helps normalize these experiences. Realizing that others have faced similar challenges can reduce feelings of isolation and shame.
2. Shared experiences and empathy: One of the unique strengths of peer sharing is its ability to connect people who share similar experiences. Whether it’s the stress of targets, the challenges of adjusting to new workplaces, or the complexities of balancing work and personal life, connecting with peers who can relate on a personal level can be incredibly comforting. The empathy that arises from shared experiences fosters a sense of community and understanding, helping students realize they are not alone in their struggles.
3. Empowering individuals: Hearing stories of others who have successfully navigated their mental health challenges can be empowering. It can inspire individuals to take proactive steps towards their mental wellness.

The Experiment

Harvard Business Review conducted an experiment at Novartis. They found that employees who read a story about their colleague making use of the services (irrespective of the severity of the colleagues’ challenges) were more interested to learn about the mental health program compared to employees who did not read a story. When employees read the mild story about a colleague using the services for anxiety and stress, it increased the odds of clicking on the sign-up link by 8%, and when employees read the severe story about a colleague using the services to cope with an abusive relationship, it increased the odds by 6.6%. This means that relative to the no story group, in our sample of 2,400, reading the mild story encouraged 29 additional employees to engage with the services by clicking on the link, while reading the severe story encouraged 24 additional employees. 

These numbers might seem small, but Novartis is an organization with 78,000 employees and scaling up its intervention might encourage almost 2,000 employees to access mental health support.

Strategies to encourage peer sharing

To effectively promote mental health benefit utilization through peer sharing, several strategies can be implemented:

1. Workplace initiatives: Employers can play a crucial role in fostering a culture of openness. Initiatives such as Manahverse and regular discussions about available benefits can encourage employees to share their experiences and seek help.
2. Community outreach: Community organizations can host events and workshops focused on mental health awareness. These gatherings provide a safe space for individuals to share their stories and learn from others.
3. Online platforms: Social media and online forums can be powerful tools for peer sharing. Creating spaces where individuals can anonymously share their experiences and offer support can reach a wide audience and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.
4. The role of leadership: Leaders who openly discuss their mental health journeys set a powerful example and help create an environment where employees feel safe to do the same. By prioritizing mental health and actively encouraging peer sharing, leaders can foster a more supportive and understanding workplace culture.

Conclusion

Breaking the stigma surrounding mental health is essential for encouraging individuals to utilize the benefits and resources available to them. Peer sharing is a powerful tool in this effort, providing a sense of community, normalizing mental health struggles, and increasing awareness of available resources. By implementing strategies to promote peer sharing and fostering a culture of openness, we can make significant strides in supporting mental wellness.

FAQs

How can I encourage peer sharing in my workplace?

Create a supportive environment by regularly discussing mental health, promoting available resources, and encouraging leaders to share their own experiences. Organize mental health awareness campaigns and support groups to facilitate open conversations.

What if someone feels uncomfortable sharing their mental health experiences?

It's important to respect individual comfort levels. Encourage sharing but do not force it. Provide alternative ways for individuals to seek support, such as anonymous online forums or one-on-one counseling.

How can online platforms be used for peer sharing?

Online platforms can offer anonymous spaces for individuals to share their stories and support each other. Creating and moderating forums, social media groups, and dedicated websites for mental health discussions can provide a valuable resource for those seeking help.