The number of workdays lost through sick leave in the UK is rocketing, hitting its highest level for three decades in 2022, according to fresh data from Statista. The fifth most common reason for sickness absence in the UK is poor mental health, so the theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day is pertinent: the workplace.
Increasing awareness about depression, anxiety and other conditions means more and more employers are taking mental health seriously. We asked Positive News readers how their work or workplace has supported their wellbeing. This is what they said.
An in-house therapist
“I once worked at a large pharmaceutical company which used to have a therapist stationed in the head office who anyone could talk to at any time by booking a meeting in their diary. It was very positive even though her main piece of advice was to get a cleaner!” – Anon, Cambridge, England
Wellbeing grants
“My employer gives us a £200 grant per year to spend on our wellbeing, I use mine towards Pilates classes and massages!” – Sara, England
