World Mental Health Day | Addressing employee mental health in the workplace

In support of World Mental Health Day we speak to James Wilson, Mental Health First Aider and New Business Sales Manager at iHASCO.

James shares his thoughts on why employers need to take mental health and wellbeing seriously in the workplace and what simple steps can be introduced by leaders to increase awareness of mental health and wellbeing throughout an organisation.

Why do you think it’s important for workplaces to properly address and talk about mental-ill health?

World Mental Health Day is a good reminder to employers to check in with their staff about their mental wellbeing, but in reality, this is something that should be happening continuously. You will undoubtedly get the best out of your staff if they feel valued, supported and know that their mental health is a priority for the business. The pandemic has been a catalyst for the deterioration of many people’s mental health as well as exacerbating pre-existing conditions. With the HSE reporting that stress, depression or anxiety now account for 55% of all working days lost due to work-related ill health, employers need to take notice. Mental ill-health will continue to be costly for employers in terms of absenteeism and loss of productivity unless it is addressed.