Rising Cost of Living Could Affect Employee Mental Health

A recent survey by Acas has discovered that the mental health of 47% of British workers has suffered due to the rising cost of living. This means that you may experience a rise in cases of poor mental health in your workplace.

Of course, a great way to help your staff is to signpost them towards practical support, such as financial advice services. However, Acas Chief Executive, Susan Clews, has stated that employers are more equipped to provide support if they create an environment where staff can openly talk about their mental health.

There are a few things you can do to foster the kind of company culture where staff feel they can discuss their mental health:

• Be approachable and encouraging when staff do raise any mental health concerns

• Check in on the mental health of your team regularly

• Be patient and respectful if a staff member does not wish to open up

• Consider adjustments that can be made to your workplace in order to promote better mental health

• Help staff to locate support for their mental health, both internally and externally to the organisation.