You want to give your team everything they need to thrive and succeed. Not just because it’s your responsibility as a leader, or because you’re aware of the connection between emotional wellness and productivity, but because you value their efforts.
You’ve noticed burnout levels have reached a critical point recently. It’s becoming more and more difficult to engage employees, and very few people are willing to go the extra mile to reach performance objectives. Your managerial intuition is telling you it’s the hour of decision— either you invest in corporate mental health training now, or you risk serious setbacks like lost productivity, interpersonal conflicts, and staff resignations.
The good news? You’ve identified the need and you’re willing to take action. That’s half the battle.
But now there’s the challenge of deciding between virtual vs in-person mental health training. How do you know which option is best?
Well, you’ve come to the right place. Today’s blog will guide you through this decision-making process step-by-step. Let’s get started.
Virtual VS In-Person Mental Health Training: What’s the Difference?
1. Format Delivery
The most obvious difference between online vs in-person mental health training is the method of delivery. Virtual training sessions are conducted via a video conferencing platform, while in-person sessions are delivered by an instructor who is physically present.
Both of these formats come with pros and cons. In virtual sessions, for example, participants are more prone to distractions like email notifications, disruptions in their home environment, etc. On the other hand, in-person sessions can result in logistical challenges like coordinating travel for employees.
2. Technical Requirements
Another key difference between in-person vs virtual mental health training is the need for various forms of technology equipment. Virtual sessions require a stable internet connection, a video conferencing platform, and computer access for all participants. In-person sessions, however, aren’t as reliant on these resources and do not require employees to have computer access.
3. Investment
Last but not least, the amount you pay for online vs in-person sessions will vary. This is because in-person sessions often require the instructor to travel to and from your desired location, resulting in additional fees for accommodations, meals, flights and/or mileage, etc. You may also need to pay for a venue if you do not have access to a suitable space.
Virtual sessions offer more flexibility and are the most cost-effective option for companies looking to reduce overall training costs.
When to Choose Virtual Mental Health Training
1. You Want to Scale Your Training Program in the Future
Virtual training can easily scale to accommodate a large number of participants, making it easy to accommodate expanding teams without a major increase in costs.
2. Your Team Isn’t Based in a Single Location
Virtual sessions are more accessible and allow companies to reach employees without the constraints of a physical location, making it the ideal choice if you have a dispersed or remote team.
3. You’re Looking to Get Started Immediately
It’s much easier to quickly deploy virtual training sessions, so if you expect you’ll need to respond promptly to training needs in the future, going virtual will allow you to avoid the logistical challenges associated with in-person training.
When to Choose In-Person Mental Health Training
1. You Want to Prioritize Engagement and Interaction
One of the greatest benefits of in person mental health training for employees is the direct interaction between instructors and participants. It allows for personalized feedback, mentorship, and the ability to address individual questions or concerns in real-time.
2. You’re Hoping to Facilitate Real-Time Problem Solving
If you’ve noticed specific concerns within your workplace that you’d like to see addressed, in-person sessions are encouraged. Instructors can tailor their approach to address specific issues and incorporate real-life examples relevant to your company’s unique dynamics. This ensures your employees leave with constructive advice and tailored strategies they can start implementing immediately.
3. You’re Looking to Immerse Mental Health in Your Company Culture and Values
Throughout in-person training sessions, instructors thoughtfully weave discussions and examples that align with your company’s values into the curriculum, reinforcing your company’s commitment to prioritizing employee well-being and ensuring the alignment of their mental health teachings with your company priorities.
As you can see, the decision to implement virtual or in-person mental health training is an important one that requires a lot of deliberation. Both options offer advantages, so the right choice hinges upon your organizational needs and desired outcomes.
Partner With Us to Empower Your Team
At Catalyst Mental Health, we work with employers nationwide to eliminate mental health stigma within their organizations and build resilient, supportive, and productive teams.
Our Mental Health First Aid instructors are accredited, highly experienced, and care deeply about reshaping the landscape of corporate mental health in Canada.
So, why not take action today and establish a work environment where success is inevitable?