New resources include toolkit to help employers advance workplace mental health

RALEIGH, N.C. – To honor May’s Mental Health Awareness Month and empower employers in supporting the mental health of their employees, the NC Chamber launched several resources on its website, including a complimentary toolkit the organization developed with First Citizens Bank, IBM, Poyner Spruill, and WakeMed.

“People are priority for North Carolina’s business community – and employees’ mental health is a top priority for our state’s employers,” said NC Chamber President and CEO Gary Salamido. “We hear from our members about the various ways they are embracing the role of mental health champions in their workplaces. Employers are often on the front line for getting employees, and even their families, to take the first steps on the path to preventative care and early detection.”

The new toolkit for employers covers topics including: creating a mental health-friendly culture, training managers on mental health, ADA requirements and accommodations, and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) compliance. This resource also highlights best practices and actionable steps for businesses to assist their employees.

“IBM is proud to participate in this initiative and contribute to this toolkit. It is imperative that everyone in the workplace is equipped to protect, promote, and support mental health,” said Tim Humphrey, RTP Senior Location Executive, NC Senior State Executive, Vice President, Chief Data Office at IBM.

In addition to designing the toolkit, the NC Chamber is hosting a free mental health webinar series specifically for businesses, collaborating with Atrium Health, Poyner Spruill, UCB, WakeMed, and RBH Wellness Solutions.

“I believe demystifying the accommodation process empowers employees and employers to discuss mental health in the workplace,” said Poyner Spruill Partner Kate Dewberry.

“Poyner Spruill is honored to be included in the NC Chamber’s inaugural Employer Mental Health Toolkit along with our fellow Chamber members, and to provide this important information in time for Mental Health Awareness Month,” said Poyner Spruill partner Kelsey Mayo.

The NC Chamber’s mental health resource page also features a quiz to test one’s understanding of the physical and financial impacts of untreated mental health concerns.

“First Citizens Bank is about people. We focus on our associates, our clients, and our communities,” said Shera Stewart, Senior Director of HR Governance at First Citizens Bank. “Wellbeing of the people around us is how we deliver better banking and better tomorrows. This is more relevant than ever in the changing times we’re all experiencing.”

North Carolina’s employers realize the positive outcomes they can achieve within their companies and communities by fostering mental health conversations and furthering information on how to receive help.

Mental Health Data: Employment Investment