Men's Mental Health in the Workplace.

At Brave | B Corp?? , through our coaching programmes and support packages, we've seen a significant increase in male colleagues beginning to, or beginning to articulate, that they are struggling with mental health and personal challenges. The hard truth is that mental health often takes a backseat, especially for men.

Our insight, is supported by recent studies conducted by Priory who's data reveal some concerning trends.

A significant percentage of men battle mental health issues, yet remain silent due holding a perception of stigma and embarrassment. Now is the right time for us to come together as employers to support our male colleagues and tackle this increasing issue. The statistics below are pretty alarming:

• 77% of men have experienced common mental health symptoms like anxiety, stress, or depression.
• Shockingly, 40% of men have never discussed their mental health issues.
• Among those who haven't, 29% feel too embarrassed to talk about it, while 20% fear negative stigma.

The major causes of mental health struggles among men include:

• Work (32%): High demands and pressure can take a toll.
• Finances (31%): Money worries are a constant source of stress.
• Health (23%): Concerns about physical health can exacerbate mental issues.

So, how can employers make a difference?

As employers there are a number of things we can do that will really make a difference. They're not all big, some are small steps that we can take every day that will make a lasting, meaningful difference. Below are a few suggestions:

• Education and Awareness Programs: Implementing workshops and seminars to educate employees about mental health is crucial. Knowledge is power.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Adapting work schedules to individual needs can greatly reduce work-related stress.
• Health and Wellness Initiatives: Encouraging physical activity and healthy habits can have a positive impact on mental health.
• Reviewing Healthcare Benefits: Ensuring that mental health services are included and easily accessible in healthcare plans is vital.
• Encouraging Open Communication: Creating a workplace culture where men feel safe to express their mental health concerns without fear of judgment or reprisal is essential.

A Positive Difference.

By now, we all know that a happy and mentally healthy workforce leads to higher productivity and morale. Addressing and supporting mental health is not just beneficial for the employees but also for the company as a whole. It's about creating a healthier, more inclusive work environment where everyone can thrive.

At Brave | B Corp?? , we'll be having a real focus on promoting men's mental health in the coming months. Look out for future posts from us and our CEO, James Fleming about how you can get involved with our initiatives.

#Mensmentalhealth #Mentalhealthatwork #Workmorale #Employeewellness