Research conducted by employee benefits provider Unum UK has found that one-third of UK employees experienced mental health challenges in 2024. A quarter of respondents reported that their mental health had worsened over the course of the year.
The study revealed that employees took an average of nine days off for mental health issues during the year, compared to four days for general health concerns. Despite these figures, a third of employees surveyed reported not taking steps to address their mental health.
Saumya Barber, head of proposition development at Unum UK, reflected on the findings, stating: “On Blue Monday – a day often associated with our mood being at its lowest – we are reminded of how widespread and significant poor mental health can be and what an impact it can have, particularly if not supported early.”
The findings, she said, highlight the need for solid mental health support as part of an employee benefits package.
“By building comprehensive employee benefits packages and signposting to these easily accessible and high-quality support services, employers can help add significant value to the workplace. This approach encourages employees to address mental health issues proactively, rather than resorting to sick leave to manage complex and worsening concerns,” she stated.
“While awareness of mental health has grown since the pandemic, we still have some way to go when it comes to encouraging workers to seek help when they need it,” she added.
In order to enhance productivity and have a supportive work environment, Barber urged businesses to prioritise the mental health of its employees, seizing opportunities to open conversations about mental health and its impact throughout the year.
In April last year, Unum UK reported an increase in rehabilitation referrals for mental health conditions. The company said that 45% of all its rehabilitation referrals last year were related to mental health, up 37% from a year ago.
