Why you need mental health first aiders for a safer workplace
In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, the conversation around mental health is more relevant than ever. Mental health issues, from day-to-day stress to chronic anxiety and depression, are increasingly prevalent concerns across all industries.
In the context of workplace safety, organisations have historically prioritised physical safety measures. However, most now realise that mental health deserves equal attention.
Thursday 10th October is World Mental Health Day. This year’s theme – “It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace” – seeks to highlight various aspects of mental health at work, from workplace conditions and stress management to the importance of social inclusion and empowerment. Mental Health UK has published a Burnout Report to tie in with the event’s activities. The report reveals that 9 in 10 UK adults experienced high or extreme stress in the past year, and 20% have needed to take time off work due to poor mental health caused by workplace pressure or stress.
With this in mind, this blog post focuses on the role of Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAs) in the workplace, and considers how specialist training can help improve staff wellbeing and safety. MHFAs have emerged as vital assets in creating safer, more inclusive workplaces. We take a look at their training and responsibilities, and the profound impact they can have in creating safer and healthier work environments.
The growing prevalence of mental health issues in the workplace
Mental health problems are on the rise worldwide, with the World Health Organization estimating that depression and anxiety cost the global economy $1 trillion in lost productivity every year. A report by Deloitte from May this year cites 63% of respondents as experiencing at least one characteristic of burnout, an increase from 51% in 2021.
In the workplace, stress and burnout are becoming commonplace. The pressure to meet deadlines, manage heavy workloads, and balance personal and professional responsibilities can take a significant toll on employees’ mental wellbeing.
When Mental Health UK’s survey asked workers about the factors which caused them stress and may have contributed to burnout in the past year, the most common answers were:
High or increased workload or volume of tasks at work – unpaid (54%)
Regularly working unpaid overtime beyond contracted hours (45%)
Feeling isolated at work (42%)
Fear of redundancy/job security (40%)
Taking on additional paid work due to the cost-of living crisis (38%)
Being bullied or intimidated by other colleagues at work (31%)
Employees dealing with these challenges often suffer in silence, fearing the stigma associated with mental health problems. Mental Health First Aiders can play a crucial role in breaking down these barriers by providing immediate support and fostering a culture where it is safe to talk about mental health.
Mental health first aid training: a lifeline for employees
According to Mental Health UK’s Burnout Report, nearly half of UK working adults (49%) say their employer doesn’t have a plan in place to spot signs of chronic stress and prevent burnout. Investing in mental health initiatives, such as wellness programmes, mental health awareness campaigns, and specialist training is imperative as part of a broader health and safety strategy.
MHFAs, much like physical first aiders, are trained to provide initial support and guidance to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis or showing signs of distress. They are not therapists or counsellors, but they are equipped to:
Identify early signs of mental health issues.
Offer a non-judgmental listening ear.
Provide reassurance and emotional support.
Guide individuals to professional help when necessary.
Respond effectively to mental health emergencies, such as panic attacks, suicidal thoughts, or episodes of severe anxiety.
Specialist training enables MHFAs to act as a bridge between employees and professional resources. At Express Medicals, we tailor our range of mental health training sessions and webinars to the specific needs of your organisation. A typical session might include helping managers identify the signs of poor mental health in their teams, or showing teams how to develop resilience in the face of workplace challenges. This training and early intervention can be critical in preventing mental health issues from escalating, reducing absenteeism, and promoting a healthier workplace culture.
Reducing stigma and fostering an inclusive workplace culture
One of the biggest barriers to mental health support in the workplace is the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Indeed, over a third of workers (35%) do not feel comfortable letting their line manager or senior leader know if they are experiencing high or extreme levels of pressure and stress at work. Employees often hesitate to say anything, fearing judgment, discrimination, or career repercussions. MHFAs can combat this stigma by normalising conversations around mental health and demonstrating that it is okay to ask for help.
When employees know that their workplace has a supportive infrastructure for mental health, they are more likely to come forward with their concerns before they reach a breaking point. This fosters an inclusive culture where individuals feel valued, not just for their productivity but as members of a team. MHFAs, by offering a safe space for discussion, can encourage employees to open up about their challenges and seek support early on. This creates a more open and understanding workplace, leading to improved morale, collaboration and productivity.
Improving workplace safety
Workplace safety traditionally focuses on preventing physical harm, but mental health is an integral part of overall safety. A mentally healthy workforce is more resilient, alert, and capable of handling the demands of the job. Untreated mental health issues can lead to decreased concentration, poor decision-making, and even accidents.
For example, an employee in construction or manufacturing dealing with extreme anxiety may struggle to focus on vital safety protocols, increasing the likelihood of accidents. MHFAs can intervene before these issues become serious, ensuring that employees are mentally prepared to work safely.
Reducing absenteeism and presenteeism
Mental health issues are a significant contributor to absenteeism and presenteeism, both of which can lead to a decline in productivity and increased costs. MHFAs allow employees experiencing a deterioration in their mental health to seek support before their condition worsens to the point of requiring time off work. Early intervention can also prevent prolonged absences and help employees return to full productivity more quickly.
Additionally, MHFA training can help employees recognise the importance of self-care and seeking help, leading to fewer instances of presenteeism. When employees know they have access to support, they are more likely to take proactive steps to manage their mental health, resulting in a more engaged and productive workforce.
A sound investment
By investing in mental health initiatives, including training MHFAs, organisations can save on costs associated with absenteeism, reduced productivity, and employee turnover. Indeed, Deloitte reported earlier this year that for every £1 spent on supporting the mental health and wellbeing of a workforce, employers get around £4.70 back in increased productivity.
A workplace that prioritises mental health is more likely to retain top talent and attract new employees. In today’s competitive job market, employees want employers who demonstrate a commitment to their wellbeing. Offering mental health support can set an organisation apart and position it as an employer of choice.
Supporting long-term mental health strategies
Mental Health First Aiders are not a standalone solution but are an essential part of your broader mental health strategy. They can help identify recurring issues within the workplace and provide valuable insights into the mental health challenges employees face. This information can guide the development of long-term mental health initiatives, and help inform your policies.
By integrating MHFAs into a comprehensive mental health strategy, organisations can create a more supportive environment that promotes mental wellbeing and reduces the risk of mental health issues escalating.
Conclusion
The need for Mental Health First Aiders in the workplace is clear. They offer invaluable support by providing early intervention, reducing stigma, improving workplace safety, and fostering a culture of inclusion and care. In an era where employees are increasingly aware that mental health is as important as physical health, organisations that invest in Mental Health First Aiders are not only protecting their employees but also positioning themselves for long-term success.
By prioritising mental health, companies can create safer, healthier, and more productive workplaces that benefit both employees and the organisation. In a world where mental health challenges are increasingly common, Mental Health First Aiders are an essential tool for ensuring a safer, more supportive workplace environment.
Sources
Mental Health UK: The Burnout Report
Deloitte: Poor mental health costs UK employers £51 billion a year for employees
