It is a shocking fact that around 15% of people at work have symptoms of an existing mental health condition (NHS Digital. Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey 2014; 2016).
The human cost is huge, with poor mental health having an impact on the lives of many individuals and those around them. This manifests itself in a variety of ways both at work and at home, and impacts a person’s ability to manage other elements of their personal life.
Action may be taken by the individual, or those around them, and responsibility also lies with the employer.
This employer responsibility is a legal requirement.
So what can you do?
For individuals, you can:
- Train as a Mental Health First Aider – for yourself, and those around you
- Learn more about managing stress
- Build your resilience
For employers, you can:
- Produce, implement and communicate a mental health at work plan
- Develop mental health awareness among employees
- Promote effective people management through line managers and supervisors
- Routinely monitor employee mental health and wellbeing.
For plans, policies and audit consultancy services, please contact hello@Ed4Health.co.uk as a first step.