A major study into workplace wellbeing by the mental health charity Mind has revealed that poor mental health at work is widespread, with half (48 per cent) of all people surveyed saying they have experienced a mental health problem in their current job.
The survey of more than 44,000 employees also revealed that only half of those who had experienced poor mental health had talked to their employer about it, suggesting that as many as one in four UK workers is struggling in silence.
These findings are revealed as a new online Mental Health at Work ‘gateway’ is launched today by HRH the Duke of Cambridge. Mind, with support from The Royal Foundation, Heads Together and 11 other organisations, has created the UK-wide portal as a free resource for both employers and employees.
The gateway brings together information, advice, resources and training that workplaces can use to improve wellbeing and give employees the mental health support they need.
Locally Carlisle and Eden Mind have seen a marked increase in contact from businesses and other large employers in the area seeking advice, training and information on how to support colleagues struggling with their mental health.
Michael Boaden, from Carlisle Eden Mind said ‘the findings of this survey whilst a matter of serious concern will not come as surprise to many employers in the local area.
Our biggest issue is that many organisations and businesses do not know where to go for information and resources to help colleagues.
This new gateway will act as a great starting point for information and of course if organisations want further local support, whether it be training, information or advice then they can make contact with their local Mind.’
