SHIFT- the government's mental health anti-stigma campaign has published an updated version of the original 'mind out for mental health' Line Managers' Resource.
Who is this useful for?
National figures suggest that some 1 in 4 people experience a mental health problem in the course of a year. If you work in a company of 100 people, this means that at least 25 of them are likely to have been affected. The costs – indirect and direct – of this to business are enormous. Mental health problems affect all organisations, large or small and it makes clear business sense to address the issue.
This resource contains practical advice on how to talk to an individual with mental health difficulties - what to say, what to do and offers further sources of information and advice.
Stress-related absences account for half of all sicknesses from work, with an estimated cost to industry of £4 billion.
By 2020, depression will be second only to chronic heart disease as an international health burden (in terms of cause of death, disability, incapacity to work and the toll on medical resources).
How to use this resource
This resource is written for managers – particularly those in small and medium-sized organisations. It offers practical advice on managing and supporting people who are experiencing stress, distress and mental health problems.
The aim is to directly address the fear, ignorance and stigma around engaging with the individual. The key message is the importance of talking openly and with trust. We suggest practical steps that managers and employees can take together to:
- Match the job requirements with the person’s capabilities
- Talk at an early stage of distress to prevent the problem escalating
- Keep in touch during sickness absence to offer support and plan for return
- Achieve a successful return to work
- Manage a long-term illness whilst remaining in work
- Access sources of support and information
- Work in line with disability discrimination law
The resource is designed in a modular format so that you can go directly to the section that is most useful.
It is important to emphasise that the vast majority of people who have experienced a mental health problem continue to work successfully.
See also case studies from Working Minds part of the mind out for mental health campaign.
If you would like any further information or presentations on stress or mental health, please contact swalter@eef.org.uk