In the seed industry, physical safety measures are a given; however, mental health risks often remain overlooked. It is essential to establish systems and expectations that safeguard both the physical and mental well-being of employees. Here are some strategies leaders can implement to facilitate this vital shift.
Safety First: A Dual Approach
Safety is the foremost priority for any organization. Given the inherent dangers in agricultural production and manufacturing, it is imperative to create expectations and systems that guide and mandate safe behaviors. While considerable focus is placed on preventing physical harm, the potential for mental harm due to workplace conditions is frequently neglected.
Addressing Seasonal Pressures
What intentional processes have you established in your workplace to protect employees’ mental health and safety? A critical starting point is managing the hours and travel requirements during seasonal peaks. Most employees in production agriculture understand that their work follows a cyclical pattern. Throughout most of the year, they juggle multiple roles both at work and at home. However, during peak seasons, they often struggle to balance these responsibilities, leading to undue pressure and guilt over unmet obligations in their other roles. Leaders must implement guidelines and support systems that enable employees to manage their diverse responsibilities effectively during these high-demand periods.
Reevaluating Work Ethic Norms
Just as it is important to establish guidelines for physical safety, leaders should also challenge traditional notions of work ethic. It can be difficult for individual employees to confront entrenched cultural expectations; thus, it is the responsibility of company leaders to evaluate whether work is being spread over 12 hours when it could feasibly be completed in 10 or less. Additionally, leaders should consider the implications of a half-time employee or the potential benefits of mandatory days off. Just as we aim to prevent physical fatigue, we must also prioritize mental well-being and be mindful of how overtime pay may inadvertently encourage excessive work hours.
Mitigating Mental Harm from Workplace Interactions
Many mental health challenges stem from interactions with colleagues. Unlike physical injuries, a single negative emotional encounter with a coworker or supervisor may be recoverable. However, ongoing exposure to negative working conditions can significantly impact mental well-being. Repeated, small incidents—such as boredom, feeling out of place in the company culture, or not having one’s talents recognized—can accumulate over time. More severe threats to mental health may include consistent undermining by a team member or manager, ambiguity in one’s role, or organizational instability.
Recognizing External Pressures
External conditions can also contribute to mental strain. The sources of mental distress are numerous and varied, making it challenging to create standard operating procedures (SOPs) for every potential hazard. Instead, it should be standard practice for each team leader to maintain an ongoing awareness of the mental health status of their team members. This involves regularly checking in, asking about their well-being, and confirming that these conversations take place. Leaders should prioritize mental health and safety standards just as they do for physical health and safety.
The Importance of Connection
As a leader, you are likely one of the most significant figures in your team members’ lives at work. It is vital to understand their circumstances outside of work and to be aware of the dynamics of their interactions with colleagues. Caring for both the physical and mental well-being of employees should be a top priority.
Understanding Mental Health Extremes
Mental health issues can range from minor discomforts to life-threatening crises. It is essential to clarify that work conditions alone do not cause suicide, and no individual should bear the burden of such tragedies. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it is crucial to seek help. You can contact the National Mental Health Hotline at 866-903-3787, call or text 988. In emergencies, always call 911.
By acknowledging and addressing mental health alongside physical safety, leaders can foster a healthier, more supportive workplace for all employees in the seed industry.
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