Mental health discrimination initiative “Time to Change” encourages companies to demonstrate their commitment to change

Why we need to talk about mental health in the workplace.

Pledging to destigmatise mental ill-health in the workplace is admirable, but it comes with problems too.

For many people experiencing mental health difficulties, fear of the stigma associated with conditions can affect how they relate to others. This fear is not just limited to social interactions, it can affect all aspects of life, including the workplace.

At work, the potential reactions of both colleagues and employers may make those struggling with a mental health condition feel unable to be open about their experiences. This is not a small problem, it is claimed that 95 per cent of employees calling in sick with stress give a different reason for needing time off.

There have been some moves to tackle the problem in the UK, however. Mental health discrimination initiative Time to Change has formulated an employer pledge, through which companies can demonstrate their “commitment to change how we think and act about mental health in the workplace, and make sure that employees who are facing these problems feel supported”.

For more information on this story visit The Independent website.