Mental health transparency at work rises but employees call for more time for physical activity, according to Nuffield Health.
According to Nuffield Health’s 2024 Healthier Nation Index which surveyed 8,000 UK adults, 32 per cent of UK employees called in sick this year due to poor mental health but gave another reason while stating another reason, which is down from 35 per cent the previous year.
The 2024 Healthier Nation Index also shows a decrease in employees who continue to work despite poor mental health, down to 56 per cent from 63 per cent last year.
Although stigma continues to prevent open discussions about mental health in the workplace, the improvement indicates progress in communication and comfort in seeking help.
But Nuffield Health’s 2024 Nation Index identifies a lack of time for physical activity, with 45.70 per cent citing work responsibilities as a barrier and 42.91 per cent pushing for more time to exercise.
Nuffield Health Mental Health Prevention Lead Lisa Gunn advises employers on three key strategies: prioritising a holistic approach to fitness by recognising the connection between physical and mental health, considering flexible working arrangements to support employees’ wellbeing and foster stronger relationships, and promoting movement in the workplace to align with WHO recommendations for physical activity, ultimately cultivating a healthier and more transparent work culture.
Gunn says: “We are extremely passionate about building a healthier nation and are pleased to see an improvement in mental health transparency each year.
“We call on workplaces to encourage their employees to look after their bodies and minds, explaining how spending just five extra minutes on personal wellbeing a day can significantly boost mental and physical health.
“This is a key part of creating an open, transparent and connected workplace environment. People are becoming more aware of the benefits of exercise on overall wellbeing and employers should lean into that.”
