Poor Mental Health at Work 'Widespread'

Tuesday, 11th September 2018

According to a survey of 44,000 people carried out by the mental health charity Mind, poor mental health affects almost half (48%) of all employees.

Only half of those who admitted having experienced problems with stress, anxiety or low mood have talked to their employer about it, suggesting that as many as one in four UK workers is struggling. This is something that Mind wants to change.

The charity - along with The Royal Foundation, Heads Together and 11 other organisations - has created an online resource for employers and employees with information, advice, resources and training that workplaces can use to improve wellbeing.

The Mental Health at Work gateway, launched by HRH the Duke of Cambridge and Mind on 11 September 2018 brings together information, advice, resources and training that workplaces can use to improve well-being and give employees the mental health support they need.

In-depth analysis of the survey has revealed that offering managers proper support can make a huge difference. Managers who felt their employer supported their mental health, or actively built their skills in supporting team members with mental health problems, were far more likely to feel confident in promoting staff well-being.

Manager confidence, in turn, is closely linked with whether employees feel able to disclose. Those staff who felt their manager supported their mental health or could spot the signs that someone might be struggling were far more likely to say they would be able to talk about their mental health at work.

Chief Executive of Mind, Paul Farmer said:

“We are really proud to be involved in this piece of work, which offers a one-stop shop for anyone looking to improve mental wellbeing in their workplace and support staff with mental health problems. We know that employers want to do more and are starting to see mental health as a priority, but often don’t know where to start. The new online Mental Health at Work gateway will change that.

“Over the last few years employers have begun to take staff wellbeing more seriously and we know that many are doing great work around mental health in the workplace. Now is the time for a step change in how we think about mental health at work. All employers need to make it a focus and support their staff.

“It’s clear from our research that when employers support their managers properly, it can make a big difference to the whole organisation. The gateway gives managers the tools they need.

“Even small changes to policy, approach and workplace culture can make a really big difference to the mental health of those around us. No matter the size of your workplace, and no matter where you work, Mental Health at Work can help you find what you need to start or continue your journey to better workplace well-being for everyone.”