New research suggests many managers ‘out of their depth’ when it comes to mental health
Research commissioned by Mental Health First Aid England (MHFA) has found that while three-quarters of managers appreciate that dealing with mental health issues is one of their responsibilities, a third of them feel out of their depth when such issues arise. This percentage rises to 45% for mangers under 25.
The survey also found that 74% of the mangers questioned were already concerned abut the mental health of their own team with 23% saying they were ‘very worried’ about the effect of the current cost of living crisis on employees.
A quarter of those questioned felt that a change in the attitude of senior management would help improve workplace mental health and performance.
These results coincide with MHFA England’s new My Whole Self campaign that aims to create a healthier working culture built on respect and collaboration, which will see organisations across the country taking part in the first My Whole Self Day on Tuesday 14 March.
Simon Blake, chief executive of MHFA England and Companion of the Chartered Management Institute, said:
‘Brilliant managers who understand mental health are worth their weight in gold. Their influence can shape a team and workplace, supporting good employee mental health and wellbeing, as well as the organisation’s productivity and performance.
‘Research shows that managers have as much impact on a person’s mental health as their partner. With the stakes this high, employers cannot afford not to give the support and training they need to carry out their role effectively.
‘Teams are at their most effective and creative when everybody feels psychologically safe and is seen, heard and valued. Empowering managers so that people are able to bring their whole self to work is better for wellbeing and better for business.’
Ford Motor Company is one of many employers that supports MHFA England’s My Whole Self campaign. Mark Wilson, Mental Health and Wellbeing Manager at Ford Motor Company, said: ‘Within Ford we see My Whole Self as a powerful tool to get people to open about who they are and the journey they have been on. We are all on a different journey through life and embracing who we are and truly accepting that our feelings and experiences shape, mould and define us is our superpower on that journey.
‘Each year as we support and grow the My Whole Self campaign we grow as a team. This year we are encouraging our leaders to lead by example, to share their life experiences, strengths and vulnerabilities and to embrace and encourage everyone to reflect and talk about their mental health.’
