Time to rethink employee mental health and wellbeing
Mental health and wellbeing have been a trending and ever-pressing matter in the workplace for a few years now, and it doesn't look like it's going away.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and an estimated 264 million people worldwide suffer from depression. In the UK, depression is also a significant concern, and it's estimated that around 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem like depression each year.
It's difficult to give an exact number since mental health issues like depression can be under reported, and many people may not seek help or disclose their struggles. However, several studies suggest that depression is prevalent in the workplace, and a significant number of employees may struggle with it. According to a study by the Mental Health Foundation, one in six employees in the UK is currently experiencing depression, anxiety, or stress. Another study by the UK's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that work-related stress, anxiety, and depression accounted for 44% of all work-related ill health cases in 2019/2020.
It's worth noting that workplace factors, such as job demands, job control, and social support, can contribute significantly to an employee's mental health and well-being. Therefore, it's essential for employers to create a supportive work environment and provide resources for employees to manage their mental health effectively.
Recently, research has shown that 85% of UK employees believe that their workplace should play a role in their mental health and well-being. There are several ways in which employers can engage in employee well being and healthcare. The two pathways for mental health and well being treatment that The Doctors Clinic Group offers are Occupational Health and Private corporate GP appointments.
It's time for employers to rethink employee well-being and mental health care. These can have a significant impact on the success and productivity of businesses and teams, when done right it can result in the following positive results:
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Attracting and retaining top talent: Employees are more likely to stay with an employer who prioritises their well-being and creates a positive work environment. This can help to attract and retain top talent, which is crucial for the success of any business.
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Improved productivity: Employees who feel valued and supported by their employer are more likely to be engaged and productive at work, leading to better business outcomes.
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Reduced absenteeism and presenteeism: By prioritising employee well-being, employers can help to reduce absenteeism (employees taking time off work) and presenteeism (employees working while sick or not fully present). This can help to reduce costs associated with lost productivity and increased healthcare expenses.
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Positive workplace culture: Prioritising employee well-being can help to create a positive workplace culture where employees feel valued, respected, and supported. This can help to improve morale, teamwork, and overall job satisfaction.
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Legal compliance: Employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe and healthy work environment for their employees. Prioritising employee well-being can help to ensure that employers are meeting their legal obligations and avoiding potential legal issues related to employee health and safety.
- Healthy and happy staff: Having healthier and happier staff can uplift the whole team, drive productivity and ambition and ultimately drive results.
Overall, by prioritising employee well-being, employers can create a more positive and productive workplace culture that benefits both employees and the business as a whole.