How Employers Can Support and Protect Whistleblowers Mental Health

Blowing the whistle can be emotionally taxing, and the mental health of whistleblowers is something employers should prioritize and protect.

• By Mia Barnes
• Sep 19, 2023

When employees come forward to report misconduct or unethical behavior within their organization, they are known as whistleblowers. These individuals play a crucial role in maintaining transparency and accountability in the workplace. However, blowing the whistle can be an emotionally taxing experience, and the mental health of whistleblowers is something employers should prioritize and protect. Here’s how employers can support and safeguard the mental well-being of whistleblowers.

Create a Safe Reporting Environment

The first step in supporting whistleblowers’ mental health is to create a safe and confidential reporting environment. Ensure employees can access anonymous reporting mechanisms — such as hotlines or dedicated email addresses — to disclose concerns without fear of retaliation. Knowing they can report wrongdoing without risking their identity can alleviate some of the stress whistleblowers may feel.

Provide Emotional Support

Emotional support is crucial for whistleblowers. So recognize that the act of reporting misconduct can be emotionally draining. Encourage open communication, and offer resources like counseling services or access to employee assistance programs. Ensure whistleblowers know they’re not alone and that people and services are available to help them cope with the emotional toll.

Peer support can be a powerful and reassuring resource. When colleagues offer understanding and empathy, it can help whistleblowers navigate the emotional challenges and negative stereotypes that often accompany their actions.

Mental health parity rules have been in effect since 2008 and were strengthened in 2021. However, further regulations are being implemented to ensure health insurers are held accountable for making sure patients receive proper mental health care. It’s now more important than ever for organizations to take the mental well-being of their staff seriously.

Protect Against Retaliation

Whistleblowers often fear retaliation from colleagues or superiors. Employers must take concrete steps to protect them from adverse actions like harassment, demotion, backlisting, suspension, denying benefits or termination.

Approximately 5.5 percent of whistleblowers report experiencing retaliation. Implement anti-retaliation policies, and educate all employees about their rights and protections under whistleblower laws. Make it clear that retaliation will not be tolerated, and there will be consequences.

Implementing a company policy to clamp down on retaliation is crucial in creating a safe environment. Such a policy should clearly zero tolerance for retaliation against individuals who report wrongdoing. It should outline the consequences for those found engaging in retaliatory actions, including potential disciplinary measures. Additionally, the policy should establish a well-defined reporting process for any suspected instances of retaliation, ensuring a thorough investigation and that such cases will be addressed promptly.

By enforcing a robust anti-retaliation policy, organizations can send a strong message that they're committed to protecting the rights and well-being of whistleblowers. Doing so ultimately fosters a culture of trust and accountability within the workplace.

Maintain Confidentiality

Respect whistleblowers' confidentiality throughout the investigative process. Avoid disclosing their identity unnecessarily and ensure only those directly involved in the investigation can access the information. Breaches of privacy can exacerbate stress and anxiety for whistleblowers.

Keep Whistleblowers Informed

Maintaining open and honest communication is essential. Keep them informed about the progress of investigations and any actions taken as a result of their report. Transparency can help whistleblowers feel their efforts are making a difference and their concerns are taken seriously.

Monitor Progress

Monitoring progress is vital to ensure the effectiveness of these efforts. Regularly checking in with whistleblowers and assessing their well-being can help gauge the impact of these support measures. Are whistleblowers still feeling secure in their roles? Are their anxiety levels decreasing? Are they experiencing any signs of retaliation or stress? By tracking these factors, employers can identify areas where whistleblowers may need additional support and make timely interventions to safeguard their mental health.

Monitoring progress also allows companies to refine their approach strategies. This ensures they align with the evolving needs of whistleblowers and contribute to a workplace culture that promotes transparency and emotional well-being.

Provide Legal Support

Ensure they have access to legal counsel if they need it. Whistleblower cases can become complex, and having legal representation can help protect their rights and interests. Their support can alleviate some of the anxiety associated with coming forward.

Offer Training and Education

Regularly train employees and managers on whistleblower policies and procedures. Educate them about the importance of whistleblowing and the protections in place. When everyone understands the process, it can reduce misconceptions and stigmatization.

Foster a Culture of Ethics

Create a workplace that values ethics and integrity by encouraging employees to speak up about concerns and wrongdoing without fear of retribution. When companies emphasize ethical behavior from the top down, employees are more likely to feel supported when they report misconduct.

Encourage employees to voice their concerns and suggest improvements without fear of reprimand. To foster this culture, organizations should focus on open communication, actively listen to employee feedback and acknowledge the importance of diverse perspectives. Leaders should lead by example, demonstrating a willingness to take action when necessary.

In 2020, 45 percent of U.S.-based companies received at least one whistleblowing complaint. By creating an atmosphere where speaking up is valued, companies can uncover and address issues early. Doing so mitigates the risk of misconduct while building a foundation of trust and accountability among the workforce.

Whistleblower Well-Being as a Priority

Whistleblowers are essential in maintaining ethical standards and accountability within organizations. Employers must establish a supportive and protective environment to ensure they can fulfill their vital role while protecting their mental health. By prioritizing the well-being of whistleblowers, employers can create an ethical workplace culture and maintain transparency and integrity within their organizations.