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Supporting employee mental health in January and year-round

Writer's picture: Lorna McBreenLorna McBreen

With the festive season a distant memory, and the dark and cold of January setting in, now is the perfect time to remind employees of the mental health support in the workplace. After all, research has shown that mental health illnesses cost the UK economy more than £118 billion a year.


Young man talking to someone
It's good to talk

Why now?

While the New Year is a time of optimism and new beginnings, many of us feel a drop in our mental wellbeing once the seasonal festivities and celebrations subside. It is also a time of the year in the UK when winter truly sets in, and the combination of the dark and the cold can make certain mental health conditions feel worse.


Good mental health however shouldn’t just be the focus in January, of course. But as the new year begins, a reminder of what is available in the workplace all year round for promoting mental health should be on every employer’s agenda.


How to support good mental health

Employers should be fulfilling their duty of care towards their employees and supporting their wellbeing throughout the year, and January is no exception.


1. Take time to talk

To combat poor mental health, employees should be encouraged to talk about mental health in general and any personal examples they choose to share, and in that way, to support each other through any emotional hardship they may be experiencing.


Employers can do much by simply encouraging employees to gather for some tea and cake. The charity Samaritans encourages employers to arrange a “Brew Monday” each January for employees to talk about mental health, however there is no reason why this should not be a regular occurrence throughout the year. By allowing workers a break from work and a chat with their colleagues, you’ll be contributing towards a more positive workplace environment and taking proactive steps to protecting mental health.


2. Recognise good work

Staff can often feel demotivated — especially if they’re feeling overworked and that their achievements are going unnoticed. It’s important that employers recognise a good job being done when they see it; even just a “thank you” can work wonders to raise morale.


3. Encourage regular breaks

Make sure your employees feel comfortable taking breaks to keep moods lifted. During the dark winter months employees rarely see the sun, so it might be worth encouraging them to get outside and enjoy the little bit of sunshine that is available.

Overall, your wellbeing strategies should be tailored to your staff throughout the year. While most members of your workforce may seem resilient and positive, it is important to acknowledge that others might be suffering.



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