In any given year, about one in five people will experience a mental health problem or illness. Fortunately, many employers have gradually come to realise thatThis makes sense not just for reasons of your own wellbeing as an employee. There is clear evidence, for example, that poor mental healthis linked to reduced productivity and how well you are able to do your job.
The trouble is that many employers do not know which kinds of interventions are the most worthwhile, both in terms of their effectiveness and from a financial perspective. As a result, many firms – and most importantly, their staff – may be missing out.For example, research suggests that cognitive behavioural therapy can be a cost-saving way to address depression.
To begin with, they need to clearly show employees that their mental health matters. They also need to create a sense of comfort and ease at work in which employees feel happy about coming forward with any mental health concerns. Managers should be trained to recognise issues and provide support for their staff.They should also be alert to workplace bullying, which can increase the risk of depression and anxiety, overriding the effectiveness of any well-intentioned systems that may be in place.