World Mental Health Day falls on 10th October 2019. It is a day where mental health awareness is recognised on a global scale. Countries will share and promote a better understanding of mental health conditions.
Historically, mental health has had a poor social stigma attached. In today’s world, views are changing. World Mental Health Day is raising awareness of mental health issues and why we all need to update our views and embrace change in society and the workplace.
Mental Health Statistics
We all have a duty to take care of our mental health which can often be over looked. According to the latest statistics 1 in 4 adults and 1 in 10 children suffer from mental health problems in the UK (source: NHS 2019). Examples of mental health can range from depression, anxiety and stress through to severe conditions such as schizophrenia and biopolar. Such conditions could be protected under the Equality Act 2010 under disability and needs to be sensitively managed. Many of these conditions go undiagnosed for many years and can impact on both personal and work life.
Mental health charities such as mind, LAMP and rethink suggest publicising and understanding mental health conditions contributes to a better understanding, particularly as it can be seen to be a hidden problem. Often the stigma will prevent employees sharing their condition. As mental health conditions are becoming more frequent and common within the work place, employers would benefit from identifying and understanding the symptoms.
Mental Health at work
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? Employers may wish to seek professional support from the likes of trained Samaritans to sign post employees who cannot cope alone. Employers can also encourage staff to talk to their GP’s who can refer staff to counselling services.
Regardless of the reason, mental health does need to be addressed as an absent employee can have a huge impact in the delivery of services. Problems could lead to high absence levels, performance issues and potential conflict. Therefore it is important to understand how to best help employees with mental health problems so that their personal and work life is supported.
If you have any queries on the article above or mental health at work issues, please contact us today.
