Supporting mental health in the workplace

Employers and employees alike are recognizing the critical importance of mental health as a foundation for a productive, positive, and sustainable work environment. With around 1 in 6 workers experiencing mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and stress each year, the impact on business can be substantial.

What is mental health?

Just like physical health, everyone has mental health that needs to be taken care of. Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. It influences how we think, feel, and act, and it plays a critical role in how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.

Mental health is as important as physical health. When our mental health is good, we are able to enjoy life, maintain balance in our responsibilities, and build resilience to handle difficult situations. However, when we face mental health problems, it can affect how we think and feel, making it challenging to manage daily life. This can impact family life, relationships, work, and the ability to engage with the wider world.

How to improve your mental health

Good mental health doesn't mean you're always happy or unaffected by challenges. You can have good mental wellbeing even with a mental health issue. If you're struggling, here are some helpful tips:

Share Your Feelings

Talk to someone you trust about how you're feeling. Sharing your feelings is a crucial step in taking charge of your wellbeing.

Keep Active

Regular exercise boosts self-esteem, improves sleep, and enhances concentration. Find activities you enjoy, such as going to the gym, walking, or running.

Eat Well and Drink Sensibly

Your diet significantly impacts your mood. Plan healthy meals and take breaks to eat away from your desk. Try to limit alcohol consumption as it can worsen feelings of depression or anxiety.

Keep in Touch

Maintain relationships and friendships, as they are vital for mental health. Recent studies show that loneliness can be as harmful as smoking or obesity.

Ask for Help

Don't hesitate to seek help. Utilise your employer's Employee Assistance Programme or ask HR about occupational health support. Your GP can also refer you to specialists if needed.

Useful Links

  • How to become a Mental Health First Aider

    Training to become a mental health first aider at work helps you to spot signs of someone needing help, feel confident in starting a conversation and signposting a person to appropriate support.

  • Further Resources

    Mind have an extensive range of resources and advice for both employees and employers to help manage mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.

  • Ask for help

    Asking for help is one of the best things you can do to take control of your mental health and wellbeing. There are many organisations who offer support including: