Recent research highlights a troubling trend regarding men’s mental health in the workplace. A significant 43% of men have expressed a desire for more mental health support from their employers, with many facing challenges in seeking help. This demand for better workplace support comes from a study conducted by healthcare provider Bupa, which explores the mental health challenges men are encountering in the workforce.
Mental Health Struggles Among Men
According to the Bupa Wellbeing Index, half (50%) of men report struggling with mental health issues, whether currently or in the past. The study identifies several factors contributing to poor mental health in men, including lack of self-confidence (27%), traumatic life events (25%), job dissatisfaction (20%), and relationship problems (21%). Despite these struggles, many men remain hesitant to seek help.
One concerning finding is that less than half of the men who have experienced mental health challenges have sought medical advice. Moreover, fewer than one in three men have confided in their partners (30%), family members (26%), or friends (24%). Worryingly, 37% of UK men even admit to actively hiding their mental health issues from their partners at home.
Lack of Awareness and Support
The study revealed that nearly three in ten (30%) men don’t know where to turn for advice about mental health. However, a growing number of employed men (43%) are turning to their employers for greater support in managing these challenges.
The stigma surrounding men’s mental health in the workplace remains a significant barrier. According to the Bupa survey, 65% of employees agree that there is a stigma around men’s mental health issues, with 10% of these individuals believing that the stigma has worsened over recent years. In light of these findings, Bupa’s Need a Lift campaign encourages men to speak up about their mental health and provides resources for managers on how to support men’s health in the workplace.
The Impact of the Stigma
Dr. Naveen Puri, Medical Director at Bupa UK, explained that while men often avoid discussing their emotions, this does not mean they are not struggling with mental health. Tragically, around three out of every four people who die by suicide are men. Dr. Puri emphasized the importance of supporting men in being open about their mental wellbeing and seeking the help they need.
He also noted that men may exhibit signs of mental health struggles in different ways. While some may experience common symptoms like feeling low, excessive worry, and trouble sleeping, others may display irritability, aggression, sudden bursts of anger, risk-taking behavior, or loss of control. Recognizing these signs in a colleague or employee can be crucial in offering the right support.
How Employers Can Support Men’s Mental Health
To better support men’s mental health in the workplace, employers can take several actions:
Promote Healthy Working Practices: Encourage regular breaks, limit after-hours emails, and help employees manage their workloads more effectively.
Encourage Professional Help: Recommend speaking to a GP or mental health professional if needed.
Provide Support Resources: Ensure that mental health first aiders are available at work and provide information on mental health support organizations like Mind and Samaritans, as well as employee assistance programs (EAP) or mental health insurance options.
Carlos Jaureguizar, CEO for Bupa Global, India & UK, further emphasized the need for businesses to address the stigma surrounding men’s mental health in the workplace. He noted that while some companies recognize the importance of mental wellness support, mental health remains the leading cause of long-term workplace absence in the UK. Jaureguizar pointed out that anonymous, confidential support services could be a game-changer for men, especially since they may struggle to confide in loved ones due to outdated stereotypes about male strength and emotional vulnerability.
Conclusion
The research underscores the critical need for workplaces to create an environment where men feel safe and supported when dealing with mental health issues. Normalizing conversations about mental health and providing access to confidential, professional support can help retain valuable talent and foster a healthier, more productive work environment. For men, breaking the silence on mental health could not only improve their wellbeing but also pave the way for more inclusive, compassionate workplace cultures.
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