If your Managers are able to identify the warning signs, what are the benefits of encouraging employees to seek support early?
An estimated 91 million working days are lost each year due to poor mental health in the UK. The Health and Safety Executive claim that mental health problems are the second largest contributor to employee ill health. Approximately 11.3 million working days were lost in Great Britain in 2013/14 as a result of work-related stress, depression, or anxiety. On average, each person suffering from these conditions took 23 days off work. The Stevenson Farmer Report into mental health at work found the cost to employers of not addressing mental health in the workplace is £1,500 per employee, per year.
Obvious things to look out for are changes in behaviour, for example, an outgoing team member might become reserved and lose interest in work and socialising with colleagues. An employee might become unusually forgetful or tired, irritable and have trouble concentrating. Or a previously reliable employee may start making mistakes or begin to miss deadlines. These could all be the first signs of stress, depression or anxiety.
With increased awareness, less stigma and careful management, employees with mental health issues may not need to take time away from work. The prevention of sickness absence benefits your productivity and reduce associated costs. It can also have a positive impact on the individual as being at work has been linked to positive psychological health and wellbeing.
We work with senior leadership teams to take a strategic approach to mental health and wellbeing in the workplace. If you would like to find out more about how your organisation can improve mental health and wellbeing within your own organisation please get in touch info@yourpeoplepotential.co.uk or call us on 01954 267640.
