More than two-thirds of organisations are unaware of how effective counselling can be in treating work-related stress or depression, according to independent research commissioned by PMI Health Group.
Most organisations (85%) surveyed said they would consider offering counselling to staff but 69% do not believe it can tackle stress-related absenteeism on its own.
A quarter (24%) said they had noticed an increase in stress-related absenteeism following the recent economic downturn.
Dianne Hatton, registered general nurse and registered mental health nurse at PMI Health Group, said: “Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a short-term therapy that helps individuals to change negative thought processes and behaviours.
“For the estimated eight million people of working age, experiencing common mental health problems such as depression, anxiety or sleep problems, CBT can be one of the most effective treatments.
“Employees will first need to be assessed by a medical professional to determine whether or not CBT is suitable. Where appropriate, it will usually involve weekly or fortnightly face-to-face sessions with a therapist, lasting anywhere between six weeks to six months.
“Many employees will remain at work during this period, while for others the short-term therapy will facilitate an earlier return to the workplace.”
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