Under half (43%) of respondents do not know whether they are allowed to take sick leave for mental health purposes, according to research by Powwownow.
Its survey of 1,500 office-based British employees also found that 46% of respondents believe that receiving more recognition for the work that they have done would increase their overall wellbeing in the workplace.
The research also found:
- 35% of respondents state that their organisation allows them to take sick days for mental health reasons and 29% think they would be more productive at work if they were able to take sick leave for mental health related reasons.
- 62% of respondents believe that their workplace is negatively contributing to their mental health, and 56% sometimes or often feel anxious about going into their place of work.
- 15% of respondents feel comfortable talking to their manager or employer about their mental health.
- 38% of respondents feel that team perks, such as away days, would increase their overall wellbeing at work.
Jason Downes (pictured), managing director at Powwownow and founder of the Smarter Working initiative, said: “Across the UK, we need to work on creating a more open culture within our workplaces. We have to ensure our employees feel confident to ask for help and support whenever they may need it, putting employee wellbeing at the forefront of what we do.
“Facilitating a better work-life balance for employees is an important step. Whether that’s encouraging flexible working, down times for staff or ensuring they are able to take sick days for mental health reasons if they choose, it’s about increasing the opportunities that are available to staff and fostering a positive environment.”