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Supporting Employee Mental Health and Performance:
The Importance of Mental Health First Aid
Christina James
March 28, 2025
For almost 70% of people, their manager has more impact on their mental health than their therapist or their doctor – and it’s equal to their partner.
People managers are instrumental in fostering workplace wellbeing and performance, so they need to have the tools, time, and training necessary to support their teams' mental health.
Supporting employee mental health is more vital than ever: CIPD reported that 63% of long-term workplace absences were due to mental ill health, the highest in more than a decade.
With staff reporting growing levels of work-related burnout and stress, managers are under more pressure than ever
In today’s fast-paced work environment, the mental health of employees is more crucial than ever. People managers play a vital role in fostering a supportive atmosphere that prioritizes mental well-being. One effective way to equip managers with the skills they need is through Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training. This newsletter explores how MHFA can benefit not only employees but also enhance overall workplace performance.
Understanding Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid is a training program designed to help individuals recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health issues and provide initial support. The course equips people managers with the tools to identify mental health crises, facilitate conversations, and guide employees towards professional help when necessary.
Benefits of Mental Health First Aid Training
Early Intervention:
Managers trained in MHFA can spot early signs of mental health issues, allowing for timely interventions. Early support can prevent more serious problems and help maintain employee productivity.
Creating a Supportive Culture:
MHFA fosters an environment where mental health is openly discussed. This reduces stigma and encourages employees to seek help, knowing they have the support of their managers.
Improved Employee Performance:
By addressing mental health concerns proactively, managers can help employees remain engaged and productive. A mentally healthy workforce is often more innovative and committed.
Enhanced Team Dynamics:
Understanding mental health enables managers to better support team members, leading to improved collaboration and morale. Teams that feel supported are more likely to work effectively together.
Skill Development:
The training not only benefits employees but also enhances managers’ leadership skills. They learn to approach challenges with empathy, resilience, and understanding.
Reduced Absenteeism:
Mental health issues often lead to absenteeism. By providing support, managers can help reduce the number of sick days taken, benefiting both the employee and the organization.
Compliance and Risk Management:
Organizations that prioritize mental health can better comply with workplace health regulations, reducing the risk of legal issues related to mental health discrimination or neglect.
Benefits for organisations
Investing in mental health training doesn't only benefit employees. Research from Deloitte has found that poor mental health across the UK workforce can cost employers around £51 billion annually.
For every £1 invested in supporting employees' mental health and the wellbeing of their workforce, businesses see an average return of £4.70 in increased productivity .
By prioritising mental health, organisations can help ensure that both employees and employers thrive by:
Building resilient teams and boosting talent retention
Improving performance and employee satisfaction
Reducing the impact of absenteeism and presenteeism
Investing in Mental Health First Aid training is a proactive step that people managers can take to support their employees effectively. By prioritizing mental health, organizations not only enhance employee well-being but also boost overall performance and productivity. As we move towards a more inclusive workplace, it’s crucial that mental health remains at the forefront of our management strategies.
Feel free to share this newsletter with your team and encourage discussions around mental health support in your organization!
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