The survey, conducted among UK companies of varying sizes, also highlighted other significant concerns:

• Mental health and wellbeing: 57%
• Physical health and wellbeing: 49%
• Financial health and wellbeing: 44%
• Social wellbeing: 44%

The research underscored a growing recognition of mental health support's importance, with 60% of employers acknowledging an increased need to address this issue among their workforce.

David Williams, head of group risk for Towergate Health & Protection says: “Our research shows that the move to hybrid and remote working has had a big impact on the mental health of employees. While the taboo around mental health is dissipating, and the matter is moving up the corporate agenda, there is still more that can be done. Mental health support is vital in today’s working world and employers need to embrace the support available in order to keep their workforce healthy, happy, and productive.”

Mental health issues encompass a wide range, from mild stress and low mood to severe depression and crippling anxiety. The causes are just as varied, including financial strain, grief, work-related stress, and physical health problems.

Employers have numerous ways to support mental health within their workforce, often through existing health and wellbeing benefits. It's crucial for employers to understand the resources they already have and how to make the best use of them. Benefits such as group income protection insurance and private medical insurance typically offer extensive mental health support, including employee assistance programmes (EAPs), quick access to therapy, and inpatient care. Additionally, many packages provide free apps and online portals to help employees manage their mental health. Support can range from building general resilience and improving overall mental health to offering specific assistance like grief counselling and addiction support.

Mental health awareness courses are effective in educating employees and fostering open communication about mental health. Training mental health first-aiders is another valuable approach, equipping individuals to identify signs of mental health issues and guide colleagues to appropriate support.

Williams comments: “Whether provided through existing health and wellbeing support or as a standalone option, mental health support needs to be made easily available to all employees. Good mental health is the crux of all health and wellbeing and the positives to supporting it cannot be understated.”