Prioritising Mental Health in the Workplace this World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day is coming up on Thursday, October 10th. It’s a valuable opportunity to pause and focus on mental health and the wellbeing of our teams.
According to the Mental Health Foundation, approximately one in six people in the UK report experiencing mental health problems such as anxiety or depression at work each week. That’s why this year’s theme is all about prioritising mental health in the workplace.
In today’s fast-paced work environment, mental health challenges are on the rise. From burnout and anxiety to stress and depression, employees at all levels are feeling the pressure. Yet, the workplace is also where meaningful support can make a significant difference.
Prioritising mental health goes beyond offering a few extra days off. It’s about creating a supportive environment where employees feel valued, heard, and cared for.
Why Mental Health Matters in the Workplace
Mental health should be at the forefront of all our workplace priorities.
Let’s face it—work can be stressful.
From tight deadlines to the endless to-do lists, it’s easy for employees to feel overwhelmed. However, when mental health is prioritised, it’s a win-win for everyone. Employees feel valued and supported, and companies benefit from increased productivity, fewer sick days, and better retention rates.
The statistics are compelling; a report by Deloitte found that poor mental health costs UK employers up to £45 billion annually. This is due to absenteeism, presenteeism (working while unwell), and staff turnover. Investing in mental health initiatives and corporate wellbeing can significantly reduce these costs and improve overall productivity.
But here’s the good news, companies can support employees to feel valued and motivated by prioritising mental health. Employees who feel their mental health is prioritised are 26% less likely to leave; this figure is even higher among Gen Z staff members.
This World Mental Health Day, let’s commit to prioritising mental health in our workplaces. It doesn’t have to be complicated—small steps can make a big difference!
4 Simple Ways to Prioritise Mental Health at Work
- Encourage Open Dialogue: Make it easy for employees to talk about mental health. Regular check-ins, mental health days, or simply providing resources can help create a more supportive environment.
- Flexible Work Options: Flexibility can significantly reduce stress. Offering remote work, flexible hours, or additional personal days can greatly support your team’s mental wellbeing.
- Share Resources and Support: Ensure your team knows about the mental health resources available to them, such as counselling services, workshops, or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).
- Celebrate Mental Health Days: Use World Mental Health Day as a stepping stone for ongoing mental health initiatives. It’s a great time to host a wellness workshop, share useful tips, or simply remind your team that their mental health is a priority.
World Mental Health Day Gifts That Show You Care
This year, why not celebrate World Mental Health Day with a special gesture?
Our limited edition World Mental Health Day gift is a great, budget-friendly way to show your team that their mental wellbeing matters. Each World Mental Health Day gift is hand-picked by our team with thoughtful items designed to support mental health, from tasty treats that make you smile, and relaxing candles to mindfulness tools and stress-relief activities.
It’s all about giving your employees a moment to unwind and take care of themselves. And for your company, it’s an investment in employee morale, productivity, and retention.
Plus, when you choose WellBox, you’re also supporting Mind, the leading mental health charity in the UK. £1 from every World Mental Health Day gift purchased goes directly to Mind, so you’re not only caring for your team but also contributing to mental health support across the UK.
This gift isn’t just a nice surprise—it’s a powerful way to say, “We care about you.” It’s the little things that can make a big difference in boosting employee morale and showing genuine appreciation.
We understand that every team is unique, so we offer customisation options to meet different preferences and needs. Whether your team members have specific dietary requirements or you’d like to add a personal touch, our online gift builder lets you create a gift that’s unique and branded for your team.
Let’s make this World Mental Health Day meaningful for your team and beyond!
