What do we mean by mental health at work?

Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act — and it impacts every workplace.
Supporting mental health at work means:

• Creating an open culture where people feel safe to talk

• Preventing stress and burnout

• Helping employees who face mental health challenges

Why it matters for Suffolk businesses

As Suffolk Chamber's Chief Executive, John Dugmore, says:

Mental health affects one in six employees at any one time. Until recently, mental health issues have been given less attention than those around physical health and in many cases there remains a stigma about talking about such matters – and what businesses can do to help."

Research by the Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development shows the impact mental health challenges can have on work:

• 37% are more likely to get into conflict with colleagues

• 57% find it harder to juggle tasks

• 80% struggle to concentrate

• 62% take longer to complete work

• 50% may be less patient with clients or customers

These figures highlight why investing in mental health support helps both your staff and your business.

Local commitment to change

Stuart Keeble, Director of Public Health and Protection at Suffolk County Council, says:

We know how hard it can be for most of us to raise a mental health issue that may impact our work. That’s why collaboration with local businesses is so important to raising awareness and why it’s more important than ever to talk about it."

Together, Suffolk Chamber and local partners are helping employers support good mental health in every workplace.