Managing mental health issues in the workplace

 

A UK governmental agency, the Health and Safety Executive recommends that a mental health policy be an integral part of any organisation's health and safety policy. Some companies, such as Marks and Spencer, have already developed mental health policies for the workplace. Analysis of the existing policies has defined certain key elements of good practice in relation to promoting mental well being at work in the UK. The most fundamental step for organisations is to recognise and accept that mental health is an important issue and show commitment to mental health promotion. The first step is to provide information on existing levels of stress and mental ill health within the organisation and the ways in which organisational structure and function may be contributing to these levels. Analysing the current situation helps to identify specific areas and objectives on which to base an effective mental health policy which responds to an organisation's needs. A mental health policy in the workplace can promote mental well being, reduce the stigma associated with mental ill health, and provide assistance to employees suffering from stress or more serious mental health problems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the United Kingdom's general response during the last ten years regarding mental health issues has been proactive. This situation analysis clearly illustrates how the various social partners, the government, advocates from the NGOs, and employees' organisations, have sought to prioritise and address mental health concerns, and in particular, the impact of workplace stress on mental health. Moreover, recent events in the UK indicate that there is a move to strengthen the implementation and enforcement of the Disability Discrimination Act of 1995. With active encouragement and guidance from social partners, employers of every size are recognising increasingly that the mental health of employees is a company concern.