Only 1 in 20 employers help workers suffering from mental health problems

57% of UK workers have suffered from mental health problems at some point in their careers, but only five per cent of employers have given them any help.

That is according to new research from Canada Life Group Insurance. The study was based on a survey of 1,000 full and part-time employees carried out in November 2015.

“A worrying lack of understanding around mental health is emerging in the working world,” Paul Avis, Marketing Director of Canada Life Group, comments. “It is crucial for employers to communicate with employees so they understand they won’t be penalised or treated differently if suffering from mental health problems. The sheer lack of awareness of mental ill health in the workplace is a very worrying trend when you consider over 50% of people experience these types of problems.”

Additionally, the research revealed that 13% of workers say their organisation acted dismissively when they brought up mental health problems. 12% said the companies acted awkwardly when dealing with the subject. 12% said they received a negative response.