Workplace mental health: Tips for employers

As we approach National Stress Awareness Day (Wednesday 7 November), stress awareness and mental wellbeing has never been so topical for employers and rightly so.

According to figures released by HSE last year, it is estimated that 526,000 workers are suffering from work related stress, depression or anxiety.

Your duty as an employer

HSE recognises six main areas of an employee’s work life which can affect stress levels and should subsequently be monitored by employers.

The demands of the job. Employees may become stressed if they cannot cope with the volume or level of work they have to do. The level of control over work. Employees may perform poorly if they feel they have no control over how and when they do their work Lack of support from managers and colleagues can lead to higher levels of sickness absence. Relationships at work. Failure to build relationships based on good behaviour and trust can lead to problems related to discipline, grievances and bullying How a role fits within the organisation. Employees may feel anxious about their work if they are unaware of what is expected of them or understand how their work fits into the objectives of the organisation. Change and how it is managed.

Minimising stress in the work place

Promote positive mental health

Promoting a positive culture around mental health and wellbeing could reduce stigma, subsequently reducing stress in the work place. It may be helpful to make employees aware of how mental health is managed within an organisation and maintain an open dialogue around the subject.

Provide adequate training

Similarly, it is essential that new employees are given sufficient training to ensure that they feel confident in carrying out their duties. This reduces the likelihood of employees feeling unable to handle their responsibilities, therefore reducing the chance of stress.

Manage employee absence

HR Policies

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