A significant percentage of UK professionals are apprehensive about requesting mental health leave from their employers.
- More than 67% of professionals report discomfort in asking for mental health leave.
- 28% of professionals would not even contemplate discussing mental health leave.
- The rise in presenteeism reflects inadequate support for mental health issues.
- Lack of formal training for managers exacerbates the problem.
A recent survey by Robert Walters reveals that a striking 67% of UK professionals feel uneasy when requesting mental health leave from their employers. This reluctance indicates a lack of adequate provisions and awareness within the workplace, causing professionals to suffer in silence.
Furthermore, 28% of professionals surveyed admitted that they would refrain from discussing their mental health needs altogether. This silence is partly due to the ongoing ‘mental health crisis’ that employers seem ill-prepared to address, as evidenced by increasing sick leave statistics reaching a decade high.
The phenomenon of ‘presenteeism’ is particularly concerning, as 49% of professionals continue working despite mental health struggles, with only a minority willing to take necessary sick leave. This behavior is driven by fears of job instability and the pressure to meet deadlines, leading to potentially severe long-term health consequences.
Managerial shortcomings are also evident, with two-thirds of managers holding their positions without formal training in HR or ED&I. This lack of expertise is detrimental to managing employees’ mental health effectively, further aggravating workplace challenges.
Alarmingly, only half of the workforce is aware of a clear mental health policy within their organization, contributing to a culture of silence around these crucial issues. The uncertainty surrounding economic conditions and internal company policies necessitates immediate attention from employers.
It is crucial for employers to address mental health leaves proactively to foster a healthier work environment.
