All employers have a duty of care to support workers’ health, safety and wellbeing, including mental health issues at work. Ahead of Mental Health Awareness Week, which takes place this year from Monday 12th to Sunday 18th May 2025, it’s an opportune time for employers to invest in occupational health support to prevent employees from developing poor mental health and taking time off work for mental health issues.
In the UK, it was reported there were 776,000 workers suffering from work-related stress, depression or anxiety in 2023/2024 and 16.4 million working days lost as a result. These shocking statistics demonstrate the increasing need for mental health support at work to ensure a healthier, happier and more productive workforce.
This blog will explore the importance of mental health at work, the responsibilities of employers and Choose Occupational Health’s services for supporting mental health in the workplace.
What is mental health?
Mental health refers to our state of mental wellbeing, how we’re feeling inside or how we are emotionally. Everyone has mental health, and most people know someone who has experienced a mental health problem. They affect how we think, feel and act, and play a crucial role in how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.
Mental health, like physical health, can fluctuate on a spectrum from good to poor. Poor mental health can affect the way we think, feel or behave, which can impact relationships, work and quality of life. Maintaining good mental health is essential as it impacts our ability to cope with life’s challenges, build relationships and achieve our goals.
Types of mental health problems
There are many types of mental health conditions, however the most common include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Schizophrenia
- Eating disorders
Some mental health problems have similar symptoms, so you may experience the symptoms of more than one mental health problem or be given several diagnoses at once. Or you might not have any particular diagnosis but still be finding things very difficult. Everyone’s experiences are different.
Impact of work on mental health
Mental health can be influenced by various factors including genetics, childhood trauma, discrimination or ongoing physical illness. For many of us, work is a major part of our lives so it’s vital that while we’re working, we’re happy and healthy.
Work can significantly impact mental health as the workplace environment and job demands can detract from wellbeing. High levels of stress, long hours and lack of support can lead to burnout and time off work for mental health issues. Conversely, a positive work environment that encourages collaboration, provides support, and promotes work-life balance can enhance mental health at work.
Additionally, employment and poor mental health can impact work performance. Individuals facing mental health challenges may struggle with concentration, decision-making and communication, which can affect their productivity and relationships with colleagues.
Supporting mental health in the workplace
Is mental health protected in law?
Everyone has the right to work, and all employees have the right to a safe and healthy working environment. All employers have a duty of care which means they must do all they reasonably can to support workers’ health, safety and wellbeing. Employers also have duties under health and safety legislation to assess the risk of stress-related poor mental health arising from work activities and to take measures to control that risk.
In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 gives protection to those who can show that their mental health condition counts as a disability within the special meaning under the act. A mental health condition is considered a disability if it has a long-term effect on normal day-to-day activity such as using a computer, working set times or interacting with people. Mental health problems that could be covered under the Equality Act include depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and many more.
Tips for being mentally healthy at work
We can all take steps to improve our own mental health. Here are 10 evidence-based ways to improve your mental health:
- Talk about your feelings
- Be mindful of your activity levels
- Eat well
- Drink sensibly
- Manage your relationships
- Ask for help
- Take a break
- Do something you’re good at
- Accept who you are
- Care for others
(Mental Health Foundation: How to Support Mental Health at Work)
For employers, Choose Occupational Health helps you support your employees by creating a mentally healthy workplace.
Benefits for the workforce
Providing access to services for mental health at work offers early intervention and ongoing support for managing an employee’s mental health. Mental health services offer numerous benefits including helping individuals manage anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. This support can lead to improved emotional wellbeing and overall job satisfaction as when employees feel supported, they are more likely to engage in their work and maintain a positive attitude.
By addressing mental health issues before they escalate, employees can build resilience and continue to contribute to their organisations effectively.
Benefits for the employer
Employers know how important people are to business. If a worker has poor mental health, it’s vital their employer takes it seriously and with the same care as a physical illness. When people are living with a mental health issue, they can experience good days and bad days, and productivity can fluctuate. On bad days they can lose focus and find tasks difficult to complete. They may even need time off, which can harm performance and profitability.
By promoting good mental health at work, businesses can reduce absenteeism, improve staff retention and create a healthier work environment.
Our mental health services
At Choose Occupational Health, we offer various services for supporting mental health in the workplace:
- Counselling
- Psychology reports
- Hypnotherapy
- Stress management
- Mindfulness training
- Health and wellbeing promotions
With mental health challenges becoming increasingly prevalent, it’s important for both employers and employees to prioritise mental health to create a healthier and more effective workplace. Our occupational health professionals are at the forefront of promoting good mental health in the workplace. Our services focus on practical solutions such as mental health support in the workplace, coping mechanisms and advice on maintaining mental wellbeing. We offer early intervention and ongoing support for managing employee mental health, supporting them to remain at work.
Get in touch to find out more information about our employee mental health services and the tailored support we can offer your business on 01228 513687 or office@chooseoh.co.uk.