Less than a third (31%) of respondents say that their employer does enough to support employee wellbeing and mental health, according to research by workplace consultancy Peldon Rose.
Its survey of 621 office-based employees also found that 37% of respondents feel their employer appreciates them, down from 44% a year ago.
In addition, just over a quarter (26%) say that their workplace has a positive effect on their mental health.
The research also found:
- 76% of respondents have experienced or are currently experiencing stress in the workplace.
- The majority (93%) of respondents believe supportive line management is the most important aid for supporting mental health and wellbeing in the workplace.
- 81% of respondents say that an open organisation culture is the most important factor in supporting mental health and wellbeing at work, compared to social and collaborative workspaces (75%), health insurance (62%) and gym membership (58%).
- 73% of respondents say that having a greater involvement in decisions about their workplace would have a positive impact on their motivation, as well as their mood (70%), productivity (70%) and mental wellbeing (56%).
- 44% of respondents believe that winter negatively affects their mental wellbeing, while 43% say that it impacts their motivation and 30% that it has an adverse effect on their productivity.
- 90% of respondents think exposure to natural light is important in supporting mental health, as well as access to quiet and private areas (76%).
Jitesh Patel (pictured), chief executive at Peldon Rose, said: “Thousands of office [employees] are struggling with their mental health, motivation and productivity this winter, but our survey reveals that there are steps businesses can take to try [and] prevent [Seasonal Affective Disorder] and the winter blues developing in the first place.
“The first step is for businesses to engage with staff via change management and getting them more involved in decisions about their workplace environment. By doing this, it will boost their motivation, mood and productivity.
“Employees are clear that rather than paid-for interventions, such as mental health support through health insurance, a supportive work culture and the right office environment will do far more to support their mental health and boost their wellbeing, meaning all businesses, regardless of size can look to make small changes that will have a big impact this new year.”
