An investment in the health of your workforce is a sure way to be more profitable.

Mind's survey of almost 44,000 employees, has found that almost half (48 per cent) had experienced poor mental health, such as stress, low mood, and anxiety, while working at their current organisation. Of those respondents, only half chose to tell their employer about their difficulties (10,554).

These findings also show:

More than eight in ten people (84 per cent) would continue to go to work when experiencing poor mental health while only just over half (58 per cent) would go to work when experiencing poor physical health

Only two fifths (42 per cent) of all employees surveyed felt their manager would be able to spot the signs they were struggling with poor mental health

A fifth (21 per cent) of all respondents feel that their current workload is unmanageable. www.mind.org.uk

As an employer, having an EAP programme is a start, but not a fix all.

Tips to promoting good mental health in your team

#1 recognise that the way you think might not be the way another person thinks. Appreciate the differences and value every person can bring.

e.g. You may be OK/relieved when you came back from maternity leave, another person may be struggling with the life transition

#2 Develop a culture of support and appreciation. Focus on what the employee can do and make sure they know that you believe they have inner potential to do really well (albeit with a bit of extra support)

#3 As a manager/employer if you're feeling overwhelmed/stressed you will more than likely see someone overwhelmed/stressed as an 'additional thing' to deal with. Take care of your work-life balance and you will be in a better position to lead and inspire those you work with.

#4 Have a process in place to support an employee struggling with their day to day life. They may have personal issues away from the work place that you don't know about i.e. relationship/divorce, caring for a sick/disabled relative/parent, managing life transition to name a few. The day's of leave your personal life at the door doesn't cut it any more for the smart employer. Put a system in place which shows you value and appreciate your employees. Maybe something in addition to'phone the EAP helpline'?

There are brilliant employers out there who appreciate that a motivated and engaged workforce can add tremendous value to the company.

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