Whether you’re working on a construction site or in an office environment, it’s not uncommon for employees to face mental health challenges. The struggles associated with symptoms of stress, anxiety, or other issues, can significantly impact an individual’s well-being and productivity. As part of ‘Mental Health Awareness Week’ (13th May – 19th May, 2024), we’re shining a light on the signs of poor mental health in the workplace, so you can offer the necessary support and resources to help employees navigate their challenges.
Understanding the most common mental health challenges in the workplace
With as many as 1 in 6.8 people experiencing mental health problems in the workplace, recognising the signs of mental health issues becomes vital in creating a positive and productive working environment. Although mental health encompasses a wide range of conditions, some are more common in the workplace than others. According to research conducted by Champion Health:
- 76% of employees experience symptoms of moderate to high levels of stress.
- 60% experience at least mild symptoms of anxiety.
- 56% experience at least mild symptoms of depression.
What are the signs an employee may be struggling?
Signs of Stress and Anxiety: One of the earliest, and often most noticeable indicators of mental health struggles, is increased levels of stress and anxiety. If a colleague or employee is constantly expressing heightened levels of concern over a project or job security for example, or may be working late hours frequently, it could be a sign that they may be feeling overwhelmed and could benefit from support.
Behavioural Changes: Noticeable changes in behaviour can also signal that someone is having difficulty with their mental health. For instance, if an employee is usually early for work and starts being late on a frequent basis, has difficulty concentrating on work or completing tasks, or is showing signs of reduced engagement in work activities, these could all be signs an employee or colleague is struggling. In these circumstances, approaching the issue with empathy and offering assistance rather than criticism, could be key to creating trust and engagement.
Withdrawal: Not everyone in the workplace is a social butterfly, but if you notice a colleague or employee is becoming more withdrawn and isolated, for instance working from home more frequently or not eating lunch with colleagues, it could be a sign they’re struggling with their mental health. Reaching out and expressing your concern is important to identifying potential challenges.
Aggressive or Self-Harming Behaviours: In some more extreme circumstances, employees may show more concerning behaviours such as substance abuse, aggressive outbursts, or be known to attempt to commit or discuss self harming behaviours. If you notice any signs of self-destructive behaviour or aggression, it’s crucial to take action promptly. This may involve reaching out to HR, encouraging the individual to seek professional help, or contacting appropriate support services.
How can poor employee mental health affect my workplace?
Failing to recognise and address the signs of mental health conditions in the workplace, whether stemming from pre-existing conditions or the stressors of the job, can have a wide range of consequences. The impact is not only felt at an individual and often emotional level, but can also affect the bottom line and productivity of a business.
It is anticipated that twelve billion working days are lost every year due to anxiety and depression alone, with factors such as absenteeism and productivity declines contributing to lost working hours. Highlighting the importance of effective mental health support in the workplace, it is estimated that by implementing better mental health support systems, UK businesses could save up to £8 billion annually, demonstrating the financial and human costs associated with neglecting mental health and employee well-being in the workplace.
Mental Health Resources
Toolkit and downloadable resources:
Providing free mental health and well-being resources can be a game-changer in fostering personal growth and resilience. Discover a range of resources from 5-step processes to self-care tips in our toolkit. Explore our toolkit here.
Understanding the 4 types of mental health crisis:
Enhance your awareness of mental health crises, by identifying the 4 types of crisis and how these could affect employees. Read more here.
5 steps to improve workplace mental health:
Whether you’re a construction business or an office based enterprise, making adjustments to workplace practices, such as enhanced flexibility, and fostering a culture of mental health awareness and discussion, can help to improve workplace mental health. Read more here.
Upcoming courses
Mindset Workshop:
Dive into strategies to alter self-limiting beliefs, and cultivate a mindset to confront fears and step out of your comfort zone, in our half-day mindset workshop. Learn more and book.
E-Learning Courses:
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