Employee Wellbeing And Mental Health: A New Frontier In Strategic HRM

Abstract

Employee wellbeing and mental health have emerged as central pillars of modern Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM). The COVID-19 pandemic, hybrid work models, and increasing job stress have magnified the significance of mental wellness in workforce sustainability. This paper explores the evolving role of HRM in fostering employee wellbeing as a strategic priority rather than a peripheral concern. Using a descriptive and analytical approach, the study integrates insights from academic literature, case studies, and organizational reports to examine the intersection between wellbeing initiatives and organizational performance. The results indicate that organizations integrating wellbeing into HR strategy achieve higher employee engagement, lower turnover, and enhanced productivity. The paper concludes by proposing a framework for embedding mental health initiatives within HR strategy for holistic organizational growth.