Businesses are failing to address the connection between good physical and mental health according to workers across the UK.
Just one in five (19%) of employees strongly believe their employer recognises this link, according to research from HealthHero.
Worryingly, nearly a third (31%) of workers feel as though their employer does not care at all or much about their mental health or wellbeing.
This last decade has seen substantial changes in the discussion and treatment of mental health conditions. With people more aware of this side of their health, expectations around the support needed are evolving.
In fact, the research shows that the majority of employees (79%) believe mental health should be considered equally as important as physical health.
Today, 9th May, marks the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Week. Whilst many businesses are making strides to support their employees, it is evident that there is more to be done.
What is the connection between mental and physical health?
“It’s well evidenced that mental and physical health are inextricably linked. Mental well-being impacts upon a person’s whole health, and seeps into every area of their life, including work,” says practicing GP and Head of Clinical Product at HealthHero, Dr Caroline Pilot.
“It is saddening that so many employees genuinely feel that their workplace isn’t there to support them, particularly as I’m sure most employers value their staff and would like to help them to be healthy and productive,” says practicing GP and Head of Clinical Product at HealthHero, Dr Caroline Pilot,” adds Dr Pilot.
Health benefits
Currently, less than half (47%) of workers receive any health-related benefits at all.
However, businesses are missing an opportunity to not only support the health of their staff but build long-term loyalty and morale. Of those that receive benefits, three quarters (75%) value the wellbeing and preventative care perks.
“It’s startling that businesses are lagging behind so much in their approach to supporting their staff’s wellbeing,” says Ranjan Singh, co-founder and CEO of HealthHero.
“With challenging economic factors affecting all businesses, it’s critical that staff wellbeing is at front of mind for every business leader to ensure they have a happy and productive workforce,” adds Mr Singh.
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
