What is World Mental Health Day?
It is a day where mental health awareness is recognised on a global scale. Countries will share and promote a better understanding of good (and bad) mental health conditions on 10th October 2018. Unfortunately, mental health conditions have had poor social stigma attached which is why World Mental Health Day is raising awareness of mental health issues and why we need to update our views and embrace change in society and the workplace.
According to the latest statistics 1 in 4 people suffer from mental health problems in the UK (source: Mind). Examples of mental health can range from depression, anxiety and stress through to severe conditions such as schizophrenia and biopolar. Such conditions could be covered under the Equality Act 2010 under disability and need to be sensitively managed. Many of these conditions go undiagnosed for many years and can impact on both personal and work life.
So what’s new in mental health?
Evidence (source: WHO 2018) suggests publicising and understanding mental health conditions contributes to a better awareness. Often the stigma will prevent employees sharing their condition; this will be exacerbated if the employer has a negative attitude, so a change to how we deal with mental health could be the way forward. As mental health conditions are becoming more frequent and common within the work place, employers would benefit from identifying and understanding the symptoms. There are many specialist websites such as Mind, Samaritans and Mental Health First Aid that focus specifically on mental wellbeing and what employers can do to be supportive to their staff.
So how do employers tackle employees with mental health issues? Employers need to understand the root of the problem and investigate (with empathy and sensitivity) – is it work place stress? Personal stress? Regardless of the reason, mental health can have a huge impact in the delivery of work. Problems could lead to high absence levels, performance issues and potential conflict. It is best to understand how to support employees with strong professional HR and medical guidance. If your company operates an Employee Assistance Programme they will be able to assist with support and guidance.
Why not get involved on World Mental Health Day and promote this good cause? Mental health can be an unseen problem and a positive attitude by managers and staff can assist employees in dealing with mental health issues promptly and to the benefit of both employee and employer.
If you require further help or information with regards to dealing with mental health issues in the workplace, please call the advice line. If you are not a client and would like help please contact 01455 852028.
