Sponsored Post

For many people, work is a major part of their lives - it's where they, earn a living make friends and hopefully, have a good sense of wellbeing.

However, we all have times when life can get on top of us and people can easily develop problems with mental health at work.

A study conducted by the Mental Health Foundation, following last month's Stress Awareness Week, showed that of 4,619 poll respondents, 74% felt so stressed at work that they had become overwhelmed or unable to cope.

Therefore, it's vital that as an employer or manager, you have the ability to spot the early symptoms of employees who may be suffering issues with mental health at work.

It is important to remember that everyone's experience of mental health will be different, so individuals should be able to access support whenever they may need it at work.

Mental health first aid training

A mental health first aid course is a great way to help you understand wellbeing and take a handle on it, ensuring you can look out for symptoms in those around you and offer support whenever it is needed.

An on-site Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training session can offer a more proactive approach to mental health issues within the workplace.

The internationally recognised programme provides knowledge and insight into identifying, understanding and helping others in the workplace who may be developing mental health issues.

On the course, you would learn to recognise some of the stress or depression symptoms that you can look for in someone struggling with their mental health, including:

  • Panic attacks
  • Fatigue
  • Appetite or weight changes
  • Distraction or confusion
  • Memory lapses
  • Tearfulness
  • Aggression
  • Increased absence

Open communication

Feelings of shame and fear of discrimination are among the top reasons people give for not telling their colleagues that they are suffering with their mental health at work.  

As an employer or manager, it's vital to create a workplace culture where people can be open and honest. This will help as this make an environment where staff will feel more comfortable to speak out about mental health concerns without fear, and as a result, reach out for help when they need it. 

Employers can encourage open communication regarding difficult subjects by letting staff know that they are welcome to discuss their feelings with managers and that support is available if they require it.

Organising meetings and briefings to remind staff of your values as a workplace and taking part in mental health-based events will promote a company culture that prioritises mental wellbeing.

You should also actively encourage employees to keep active, eat well and have breaks away from their work.

Employee Assistance Programme

The stress management support you offer could be in the form of an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

The service assists employers to demonstrate a proactive commitment to employee wellbeing and is ideally situated to increase wellbeing and maximise productivity.

An EAP will offer your staff wholehearted support in the form of counselling, legal support, health and well-being advice, and an assured safe place to talk, especially in times of crisis. It also provides a proactive intervention to empower both employees and managers.