Mental health training in the workplace

Mental health training in the workplace should be a key part of an employer’s policies and procedures to sustain a strong and productive workforce.

The need to support employees' mental health has never been greater. The impact of Covid, increased financial pressures, and a world full of bleak news, has led to The Centre for Mental Health estimating that up to 10 million people in the UK may need mental health support in the aftermath of the pandemic.

What is the employer’s duty of care for mental health

Taking care of employees’ mental health is a legal duty of care. Employers must do what is reasonable and practical to support their employees' mental health, safety, and wellbeing. 

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidance recommends that employers include mental health in their first aid needs assessment. Consider including Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training, which teaches participants to recognise early signs of mental health issues and offer initial support until professional help is available.

Is mental health training a legal requirement?

No, mental health training is not currently a legal requirement in the UK, however employers do have a legal duty of care to their employees that covers their mental, as well as physical, health.

MPs in the UK have debated making it a legal requirement for businesses to offer mental health first aid training, with a bill proposed that would create equality between mental health and physical health first aid in the workplace.

Even though it isn’t a legal requirement, looking after employees’ mental health in the workplace can reduce sickness absence and increase productivity. The Health and Safety Executive estimates that mental illness accounted for around half of all cases of sick leave last year.

How do you create a mentally healthy workplace?

To create a mentally healthy workplace it is essential to involve senior leaders and managers in mental health training. Their engagement sets the tone for the entire organisation, signalling that mental health is a priority and encouraging employees to take it seriously.

The aim should be to create a culture that works towards making mental health an easy conversation in the workplace, building trust is essential to allow a safe space for employees to feel vulnerable.

How do you break down mental health stigma in the workplace?

It is possible to work towards breaking down mental health stigma in the workplace by promoting an open and supportive environment. A key goal of mental health training is to reduce stigma and create a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health issues. This requires leadership commitment to promoting openness, as well as ensuring confidentiality and respect when dealing with sensitive matters.

It is essential to emphasise confidentiality in all conversations around mental health. Additionally, creating a clear pathway for employees to access support ensures they know where to go for help if needed. By focusing on these considerations, workplaces can create a more supportive, understanding, and mentally healthy environment for all employees.