A survey of 44,000 people undertaken by mental health organisation, Mind, reported that half of all employees experienced mental health issues, with only half of those having disclosed it to their employer.

A supportive workplace makes a huge difference, e.g. having flexible hours and regular catch-ups.  However, according to Mind, a shocking 300,000 people in the UK lose their job each year due to a mental health problem.

Mind, in partnership with a number of other organisations, has developed an online resource for employers and employees with toolkits, videos, case studies and other information: Mental Health Resource

The Institute of Directors reported the findings of a recent study which showed that more employees are now approaching their managers with concerns around mental health, but most companies still fail to offer appropriate training, with less than one in five offering mental health training for managers.

Employers for Disability NI offers a Disability Advice Line, Employee Support Service and Training – indeed mental health is the most common issue raised by employers and employees, and mental health seminars and workshops are our most booked sessions.

Photo: Employers for Disability NI staff with HR representatives from Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon District Council at the Oxford Island training venue, where we recently delivered two sessions: Managing Mental Health in the Workplace (a seminar for managers) and Stress Awareness and Emotional Resilience Workshop, delivered by our CBT therapist

Read BBC report for full details (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-45470517)