Mental health at work, white paper: 

A workplace can have a big impact on a person's health and wellbeing – therefore it's important that all managers understand how to create conditions that encourage good mental health. The stigma around mental health remains a major obstacle – with many unable to disclose through fear of misunderstanding and how their colleagues might respond. Current figures show that 1 in 6 workers face mental health issues – with anxiety, stress and depression responsible for the majority of UK sick days.

In recent years there has been an increased emphasis on public and work-based well-being initiatives. This has been underpinned by government legislation and policy relating to improving mental health as a nation. This white paper seeks to understand the wider benefit of mental wellness management and provides guidance on how to speak confidently about mental health in the workplace.

Authors Poppy Jaman and Jaan Madan are from Mental Health First Aid England (MFHA) and this white paper guides you through the background of mental health at work, the terminology frequently used to describe these conditions and how management standards can impact workforces for the better.