Should employers be doing more to recognise mental ill health in the workplace ?

A business focused charity is launching what it says is the largest survey of employees mental health. The Government have agreed to provide 1 billion pounds this decade for mental health services as concerns mount over the rise in stress- related absence from work and its effect on productivity (Financial Times 2016). Mental Ill health at work is the leading cause of sickness absence in the UK and is on the rise. The survey is being supported by Mind and it is hoped that it will raise public and employer awareness of the importance of protecting mental health. More than a third of working people living with mental ill health say they are not open about their condition at work, according to a study by AXA PPP healthcare due to stigma and fear of repercussions in the work place.

The importance of creating a culture of openness and support regarding mental health is not only vital for the wellbeing of the employee but also beneficial to the employer as businesses who look after the mental wellbeing of their employees can see a significant impact on business performance (Financial Times, 2016). The Learning Support Centre provides Mental Health Awareness training to support employers spot the early signs of any mental health difficulties and put effective strategies in place to support the employee. We also provide workplace support for employees such as specialist mental health mentoring and job preparation and coaches. For more information please visit our website – The Learning Support Centre

Written by Amy Deignan