The CIPD’s latest research on health and well-being at work with SimplyHealth shows that mental health is now an even more significant challenge than seen in previous years. The number of HR professionals reporting an increase in reported common mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression, in their organisation has jumped from 41% in 2017 to 55% in 2018. Mental ill health is also a more significant cause of both short and long-term sickness absence. These findings show an urgent need for accessible, trusted guidance to help organisations develop healthier workplaces and support the mental well-being of their employees. 

Mental health is one of the most important issues that employers need to address in the modern workplace. It also lies at the heart of the CIPD’s purpose to champion work and working lives. In the UK, one in six adults meet the criteria for a common mental disorder, according to the latest official data. This means that most of us will have either experienced mental ill health ourselves or know someone who has – even if you are not aware of it.

Many organisations have been making good progress in supporting people’s health and well-being at work. But CIPD research shows there is some way to go before most organisations develop an effective framework to support people’s mental health at work, with less than half (44%) of employees feeling confident enough to disclose unmanageable stress or a mental health issue to their employer or manager. 

Whether you are just starting to look at how you can support your staff, or looking to make a bigger commitment to well-being at your place of work, there is something for you on the gateway. Even small changes to policy, practice and workplace culture can make a significant difference to the mental health of those around us.

Mental Health at Work is a UK-wide initiative, supporting people across all workplaces, all sectors, all backgrounds and all regions. This is only the beginning and we are looking to expand the support available here – we have over 100 resources on the gateway, but hope that over time we can keep growing.