Managers are crucial in shaping workplace experiences, with a direct impact on employee mental health.
- Research shows managers affect mental health (69%) as much as a spouse, more than doctors or therapists.
- Many managers lack training in recognising mental health issues, leading to missed support opportunities.
- Proper tools and training can enable managers to better support employee mental health effectively.
- Supporting mental health isn’t just ethical; it enhances productivity and job satisfaction.
Managers play a pivotal role in employees’ workplace experiences, directly influencing mental health outcomes. Research indicates that managers can have as much influence on employee mental health as a spouse or partner, more than healthcare professionals like doctors or therapists. This influence underscores the critical need for managers to be equipped with the right training and tools to support mental health.
Despite the paramount role managers play, many are not adequately prepared to handle mental health issues. Only 31% of managers have received sufficient training to recognise mental health symptoms, according to the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health. This shortfall leaves many employees feeling unsupported, as managers miss opportunities for early intervention, potentially exacerbating existing mental health problems.
There is a pressing need to equip managers with defined tools and training to address mental health concerns effectively. This includes Mental Health First Aid training, which enables managers to identify mental health issues, engage empathetically, and guide employees to appropriate support services. It also involves creating a workplace culture that destigmatises mental health, encouraging open dialogue and work-life balance.
Prioritising mental health training for managers is not only a moral obligation but also a strategic business decision. According to the World Health Organisation, depression and anxiety lead to the loss of 12 billion working days annually, costing businesses $1 trillion in productivity. Therefore, supporting managers with mental health training can lead to improved employee morale, job satisfaction, reduced turnover, and increased productivity.
Adopting a ‘prevention-first’ approach is essential in managing stress, anxiety, and burnout among employees. Data from the Health and Safety Executive shows that stress, depression, and anxiety account for nearly half of work-related ill health cases and the majority of working days lost due to these issues. This highlights the importance of empowering managers with the necessary resources to foster a healthier workplace environment.
Investing in manager training improves workplace mental health, benefiting both employees and organisations.
