It's Time to Prioritise Mental Health in the Workplace: A Call for Action on World Mental Health Day 2024

In the modern workplace, the pace of change has never been faster. But amid all the shifts - technological advancements, market competition, and evolving work environments - one constant remains: the wellbeing of employees. Today, we’re witnessing a critical juncture where stress, burnout, and poor mental health are becoming the norm rather than the exception. As we recognise World Mental Health Day 2024, it’s essential for businesses to reflect on their commitment to employee mental health and, more importantly, take meaningful action to foster healthier, more supportive workplaces.

The Growing Impact of Workplace Mental Health

Recent research underscores the growing crisis of mental health in the workplace. A 2023 UK report by the Mental Health Foundation reveals that nearly 1 in 6 workers experience poor mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and stress. That translates to more than 17% of the workforce - a statistic that highlights a troubling trend across industries and sectors.

But the toll of poor mental health isn’t just personal - it has a significant financial impact as well. According to 德勤 , UK businesses are facing a staggering ￡45 billion annual cost due to mental health issues. This figure takes into account absenteeism, presenteeism (where employees are physically present but mentally disengaged), and employee turnover. Since the pandemic, the problem has only intensified, with many workers struggling to adapt to new challenges, both in the office and remotely.

Why Prioritising Mental Health is Essential

Beyond the clear ethical obligation to support employee well-being, prioritising mental health offers businesses a compelling return on investment. Findings from the Thriving at Work report demonstrate that for every ￡1 invested in mental health initiatives, employers can expect an average return of ￡5.30. This boost comes from increased productivity, better staff retention, and reduced absenteeism - factors that are crucial to long-term business success.

Despite the clear advantages, however, many organisations have yet to develop a comprehensive mental health strategy. Less than half of UK businesses have taken the necessary steps to embed mental wellbeing into their operations, leaving significant room for improvement. Relying on occasional wellness programmes or offering mental health days, while helpful, simply isn’t enough. What’s needed is a sustained, strategic investment in mental health, one that supports both employees and the business as a whole.

Steps Employers Can Take Today

So, how can businesses start making meaningful progress toward improving workplace mental health? While the path forward will differ for each organisation, a few key actions can help lay the foundation for positive change:

1. Create an Open Culture:?

Mental health should be a topic employees feel comfortable discussing, just like physical health. Building a culture where people feel safe to share their experiences - and where managers are trained to spot the signs of stress, anxiety, or burnout - can make a world of difference.

2. Offer Tailored Support:?

No two workplaces are exactly alike, and neither are the mental health needs of their employees. Consider providing tailored support, whether through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), in-house mental health champions, or partnering with professional services. The goal should be to offer accessible, confidential, and practical support for those who need it.

3. Embrace Flexibility:

Flexibility is no longer a trend - it’s a necessity. Whether through hybrid working models or more flexible hours, allowing employees to balance their personal and professional lives helps reduce stress and promotes mental wellbeing. In 2024, flexibility is a top workplace priority and directly impacts how employees feel about their jobs.

4. Embed Mental Health First Aiders in the Workplace:

By engaging in First Aid for Mental Health training, individuals can become more aware of how to best support others living with poor mental health. At MHScot our First Aid for Mental Health training is designed to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to provide support to someone experiencing poor mental health.

A Healthier Workforce, A Stronger Business

Supporting employee mental health isn’t just an act of compassion; it’s a smart business strategy. Organisations with happy, mentally healthy workers see direct benefits, from enhanced productivity to higher job satisfaction. Studies also show that mentally healthy workplaces experience increased loyalty, fostering a culture where employees feel valued and are more likely to stay with the company long term.

As businesses navigate the complexities of today’s work environment, those that prioritise mental health will be better positioned to thrive. Creating a resilient, mentally healthy workforce drives innovation, collaboration, and overall business success. Mental health is no longer a "nice-to-have" component of a progressive workplace - it’s an essential ingredient for long-term prosperity.

Final Thoughts

World Mental Health Day 2024 is a reminder that the time to act is now. Businesses that take proactive steps to address mental health will see the benefits reflected not only in their bottom line but also in the culture of their organisations. A workplace where mental health is valued is one where employees can perform at their best, collaborate effectively, and drive growth.

Let’s go beyond awareness and commit to real change. Prioritising mental health in the workplace is an investment in the future - both for employees and for the business.?

At MHScot this is our priority everyday, not just this one day. Visit our website for our we can help you make Mental Health and Wellbeing a priority in your workplace.