Mind Your Workplace Wellbeing

The research comes from nearly 44,000 employees whose employer is taking part in Mind’s third annual Workplace Wellbeing Index 2018-19.

When it comes to managers, Mind’s research found that many feel they could do with more support. Around two in five of the 15,500 managers surveyed said they felt their employer contributed to their skills to support an employee experiencing poor mental health, while two in three felt confident promoting wellbeing.

The survey – which involved over 100 organisations - also found over one in two staff felt their organisation supports their mental health, and around one in two felt the culture at their organisation makes it possible to speak openly about experiencing poor mental health.

The data revealed that mental health problems are common among staff - more than seven in ten employees have experienced mental health problems in their lives, while over one in two employees are affected by poor mental health in their current workplace.

Responding to the figures, Emma Mamo, Head of Workplace Wellbeing at Mind, said: “With mental health problems so common among employees, it’s important that every workplace – no matter the size - makes staff wellbeing a priority. It’s also vital that employers make sure managers know how to spot and support colleagues who might be struggling with issues like stress, anxiety or depression.

“Thankfully, mental health at work is becoming a key priority for many organisations. This year, over 100 forward-thinking employers of different sizes and sectors took part in our Workplace Wellbeing Index – an opportunity to celebrate best practice and receive support on how to do even better.

"But there’s still a way to go when it comes to creating a culture where staff feel able to be completely open about their mental health in every workplace.”