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Mental health has become an increasingly critical issue in workplaces across the UK. As we navigate through ongoing challenges such as the pandemic and economic uncertainty, the mental wellbeing of employees is more important than ever.
Recent statistics highlight the severity of the mental health crisis in the workplace. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), approximately 875,000 workers* in Great Britain suffer from work-related stress, depression, or anxiety. This resulted in more than 17 million working days* lost in the last year alone.
Deloitte estimates that mental ill health costs the UK economy around £51* billion annually, driven by absenteeism, presenteeism, and staff turnover.
Creating supportive environments for mental health
Here are some practical tips from our consultant, Bindi Jacob, employers can consider:
Tip 1 - Foster open communication
Create an environment where employees feel safe discussing their mental health. This can involve regular check-ins and an open-door policy for mental health concerns.
Tip 2 - Implement training programs
Provide mental health training for managers and employees to help them recognise signs of mental distress and understand how to offer support.
"In a post-COVID world, integrating social impact risks into business models is essential. We are facing a climate change, wellbeing and health crisis. A proactive approach can help you reduce your reporting cost and help you identify productivity gains across your workforce and value chain" – Bindi Jacob CIMA, consultant at Simplify Climate.
Tip 3 - Encourage work-life Balance
Promote policies that encourage employees to maintain boundaries between work and personal life. Flexible working hours and remote working options can help alleviate stress.
Tip 4 - Provide resources
Ensure access to mental health resources, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counselling services, and wellness initiatives.
Tip 5 - Measure and adapt
Regularly assess the effectiveness of mental health initiatives through surveys and feedback. Be willing to adapt strategies based on employee needs and your stakeholder expectations.
Tip 6 - Promote exercise and healthy
Eating
Encourage employees to engage in regular physical activity and adopt healthy eating habits. Research shows that exercise can reduce anxiety and depression, enhance mood, and improve overall mental health.
The path forward
Improving mental health in the workplace is not just a moral obligation but also a business imperative. Organisations that invest in mental health support can expect to see significant returns, including increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and a more engaged workforce.
We at Simplify Climate are empowering organisations and individuals to transform their perception of social factors integration from a regulatory burden to a competitive advantage.
Email help@simplifyclimate.co.uk to arrange a call with our consultants.
*Sources:
National mental health strategy needed to tackle workplace wellbeing issue, urge UK safety bodies (shponline.co.uk)
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