World Mental Health Day (10 October)

World Mental Health Day (10 October) was created by the World Foundation of Mental Health to raise awareness of, and drive positive change for, everyone’s mental health. ‘It’s also a chance to talk about mental health, how we need to look after it, and how important it is to get help if you are struggling.’

Why is World Mental Health Day important?

• 776,000 workers experienced work-related stress, depression or anxiety in 2023/24. [HSE]
• Stress, depression or anxiety accounted for 46% of work-related ill health and 55% of all working days lost due to ill health in 2023/24. [HSE]
• The main work factors cited as causing work-related stress, depression or anxiety include the demands of the job, lack of control, lack of information and support, work relationships, and roles and responsibilities.

Employers have a legal duty of care to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of their employees, including mental health/stress. Mental wellbeing also benefits the business, for example, increased productivity, a reduction in sickness and staff turnover, and it demonstrates that the organisation is a good, safe, and supportive place to work. Research has found that, on average, businesses achieve a £5 return for every £1 spent on wellbeing support. [Deloitte UK]

Mental wellbeing in the workplace is also good for the employee, for example, improving confidence, purpose, achievement, positive relationships, and inclusion.

Resources

Mates in Mind, provide organisations with resources to improve the mental health of their workforce by providing the skills, clarity, and confidence to employers on how to raise awareness, improve understanding, implement effective interventions and end the stigma that surrounds mental health. You can find resources here.

World Mental Health Day Poster