The Importance of Workplace Mental Health
The rise in awareness regarding workplace mental health is on the increase and for good reason. Businesses can be held accountable and have a legal duty to ensure that their employees are protected from physical and emotional stresses within the workplace.
A high proportion of employees, 86%, regard work as key to their identities, emphasising the critical role businesses play in ensuring the mental health and wellbeing of their employees. However, statistics indicate that mental health is currently the number one reason for staff absence – 70 million workdays are lost collectively within the UK each year due to mental health illnesses, which in turn costs UK employers approximately £2.4bn.
Why Workplace Mental Health is Paramount
Workplace mental health is a priority that is paramount to ensure the highest productivity and a healthy working environment for all within a business. A supportive and mentally healthy workplace can lead to happier employees, reduced absenteeism, and increased productivity. According to the World Health Organization, decent work supports good mental health by providing a sense of confidence, purpose, and achievement.
How to Create a Happy Workplace Environment
So, in what ways can you help to ensure that your business is providing its employees with a happy workplace environment? One effective approach is to invest in Mental Health First Aid Training accredited by MHFA England.
Mental Health First Aid Training
Mental health first aid training is available for those who are responsible for adults and youths. It is recognised and endorsed by the government to be adopted by businesses to prevent health issues from arising. The training is designed to help build a supportive culture around mental health, equipping individuals with the tools needed to support themselves and their colleagues in relation to wellbeing.
Types of Mental Health First Aid Training
Here at Livius Training, we offer two types of Mental Health First Aid Training:
Mental Health Awareness
This course provides a basic understanding of mental health issues, helping participants to recognise signs and symptoms and offering initial support.
Mental Health First Aider
This comprehensive course equips participants with the skills to provide first aid to someone experiencing a mental health crisis, including how to approach, support, and refer them to appropriate help.
Benefits of Mental Health First Aid Training
Investing in mental health first aid training has numerous benefits:
- Creating a Supportive Culture: Encourages open conversations about mental health and reduces stigma.
- Equipping Employees: Provides tools and knowledge to support colleagues effectively.
- Preventing Health Issues: Helps in early identification and intervention, preventing issues from escalating.
- Enhancing Wellbeing: Promotes overall wellbeing and a healthier work environment.
Legal and Ethical Responsibilities
Businesses have a legal and ethical responsibility to ensure the mental health of their employees. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides guidelines on how to manage workplace mental health effectively. Employers should conduct regular assessments and implement strategies to support mental health.
Further Reading
For more information on workplace mental health and training options, visit the following resources:
Conclusion
Let’s work together to be kind to our minds. Investing in mental health first aid training is a proactive step towards creating a supportive and healthy workplace environment. By prioritising workplace mental health, businesses can ensure their employees are happy, productive, and well-supported. Remember, a mentally healthy workplace is not just beneficial for employees but also for the overall success and sustainability of the business.
Try Our courses:
Level 3 Supervising First Aid for Mental Health.
Level 2 First Aid for Mental Health.
Level 1 Mental Health Awareness.
To further support workplace mental health, consider our e-learning courses:
- Supervising Mental Health at Work
- Mental Capacity Act and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards
- Mental Health Awareness
- Mental Health First Aid
These courses are designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to manage and support mental health in the workplace effectively.