As another World Suicide Prevention Day comes and goes, the internet is filled with mental health support, advice, motivational messages, and potentially triggering stories.
It is a day to raise awareness for suicide prevention and share resources for those experiencing a critical mental health crisis. Here at Wellspace, we recognise that these annual calendar days are crucial for removing the stigma surrounding mental health, but we also know first-hand that mental health support should be provided year-round.
In this blog, we are going to shine the spotlight on employee mental health. As an employer, business owner or manager, you are responsible for supporting employee mental health every day.
The Facts
Unfortunately, employee mental health is a prevalent problem within many businesses, from SME’s to large corporations. Various factors within the workplace can contribute to poor mental health, including poor management, a toxic environment, and workplace harassment.
For those working from home, increased workloads and isolation are just a couple of factors that can impact an employee’s mental health.
Statistics prove that poor mental health affects more employees than we may realise. So, let’s look at the facts:
- The Mental Health Foundation found that 1 in 6.8 people are struggling with mental health problems in the workplace.
- Also, almost 20% of women and 11% of men in full-time employment will likely suffer from a common mental health condition.
- Mental health conditions, including stress, depression and anxiety are responsible for more than 50% of all long-term absences in the UK.
- Devastatingly, 95% of employees stated they would not be truthful about the reason for their absence if they were calling in sick with stress.
- From a business perspective, poor mental health can cost UK businesses up to £8 billion every year due to reduced presenteeism and absenteeism.
- Although an employee’s mental health may not be directly related to their job, almost 90% of employees with mental health issues believe it negatively impacts their work life.
- Similarly, a survey carried out by CV Library found that almost 50% of respondents have thought about resigning from a job due to it taking a toll on their mental health.
As you can see from the above statistics, employee mental health is a huge problem in the UK. If you believe you have a healthy, happy workforce, it may be time to look a little closer.
Spotting The Signs
Unfortunately, only 13% of employees would feel comfortable discussing their mental health at work. With the stigma surrounding mental health, it is no surprise that the majority of people do not feel comfortable sharing their problems with their employers, especially considering there is a high rate of job loss among those with mental health conditions.
This means that aside from creating an open and honest workplace, employers should always be on high alert. There are a few things to look out for when in the workplace. If an employee is struggling with mental health conditions, they may:
- Behave erratically or appear to have mood swings
- Call in sick a lot or arrive late to work
- Be less productive and lack creativity
- Struggle to focus, problem-solve and concentrate on even simple tasks
- Withdraw from their colleagues and isolate themselves
- Become easily irritated or angry
- Appear anxious or worried
- Appear tired regularly
- Have an unkempt appearance
With so many of us working from home, ensuring you are communicating effectively with employees is crucial.
Preventing Employee Mental Health Issues
The Mental Health Foundation suggests that creating a mentally healthy workplace starts with valuing mental wellbeing as part of your organisation. And here at Wellspace, we couldn’t agree more.
Aside from providing crucial help for your employees, prioritising employee mental health will also have a positive impact on your business as a whole. Studies show that organisations with mentally healthy employees report higher levels of productivity, fewer health-related absences, and reduced staff turnover.
With the right tools and support, you could actively prevent employee mental health issues, whilst supporting those who are currently struggling with a mental health condition.
Here’s another stat for you (we love statistics)… Public Health Matters stated that an employee wellbeing programme can generate a return on investment of up to 800%.
Employee Wellbeing Program
The Wellspace employee wellbeing programme has helped a wide range of organisations and businesses improve the mental and physical wellbeing of their employees. So much so, that 97% of businesses said they would recommend us.
Our wellbeing solutions, which include a wellbeing app for employees, an online portal for employers and health and wellbeing training, can be tailored to the needs of your business. The Wellspace App enables employees to track and monitor their mental health, physical activity and sleep, whilst our online portal provides you with clear-cut measurable results.
The Wellspace training sessions are led by medical professionals including health practitioners, behaviour experts, nutritionists, mental health first-aiders and wellbeing coaches.
Using the online portal, you can see which of you employees may be struggling with their mental health and wellbeing and provide them with the support they need.
Get In Touch
Are you ready to prioritise employee mental health? Would you like to find out more about Wellspace’s wellbeing solutions?
If the answer is yes, get in touch with the Wellspace team. We will be happy to help!
