Two-thirds (66%) of managers feel confident promoting employee wellbeing, according to research by mental health charity Mind.
A survey of 43,838 employees from 105 organisations, including 15,824 staff who have management responsibilities, also found that 41% of managers believe their employer contributes to their skills in order to support employees experiencing poor mental health.
Emma Mamo (pictured), head of workplace wellbeing at Mind, said: “Thankfully, mental health at work is becoming a key priority for many organisations. This year, over 100 forward-thinking employers of different sizes and sectors took part in our Workplace Wellbeing Index, an opportunity to celebrate best practice and receive support on how to do even better.
“But there’s still a way to go when it comes to creating a culture where staff feel able to be completely open about their mental health in every workplace.”
Almost three-fifths (56%) of employee respondents feel that their organisation supports their mental health, and 45% believe that their manager would be able to spot if they were having problems with their mental wellbeing. A further 51% think the culture at their organisation makes it possible for them to speak openly about experiencing mental ill health.
Around seven in 10 (71%) of employees have experienced mental health problems in their lives, while 53% are affected by poor mental health in their current workplace.
Mamo added: “With mental health problems so common among employees, it’s important that every workplace, no matter the size, makes staff wellbeing a priority. It’s also vital that employers make sure managers know how to spot and support [staff] who might be struggling with issues like stress, anxiety or depression.”