Mental Health Awareness Week 2023 How does poor mental health impact the workplace?

Individuals and communities are encouraged to learn about mental health, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, and promote mental wellness. This annual event also highlights the reality of mental health suffering across the UK:

• 1 in 6 in the UK will experience a common mental health problem
• Women are twice as likely as men to experience anxiety or depression
• Suicide is the leading cause of death for people aged 20-34 years old.
• Rates of depression have doubled during the last 2 years
• The rate of anxiety has increased by 50% in the last 2 years

Mental health in the workplace

Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress can have a significant impact on your work performance. These conditions can lead to difficulties concentrating, low motivation levels, and decreased productivity. In some cases, this can also lead to absenteeism or presenteeism.

Absenteeism is a major issue in the UK, with mental health problems being the leading cause of long-term sickness absence. According to the Centre for Mental Health, mental health issues cost UK businesses £35 billion per year, with 15.4 million working days lost due to work-related stress, anxiety, and depression.

Presenteeism – where an individual is present at work but unable to function to their full ability – can lead to decreased productivity, increased errors and accidents, and have a negative impact on the overall workplace culture.

Medical insurance may provide access to mental health support, which can ultimately benefit both the individual and the company. It may cover the cost of private mental health treatment, including therapy, counselling, and medication – which in turn may reduce waiting times and help ensure that employees receive the support they need promptly.

Furthermore, providing medical insurance that includes mental health support can improve employee satisfaction and retention rates. It demonstrates to employees that their employer values their well-being and is willing to invest in their health. This can lead to increased engagement and motivation levels, as well as a positive impact on the overall workplace culture.

*Applies to eligible Institute of Directors members on quotes for new Bupa By You policies, and is not available in conjunction with any other offer (e.g. months free, guided care options). Discount will be reviewed on 22/10/2025 and any changes will apply to renewals and new quotes thereafter. Quotes are valid for 14 days. See full terms and conditions here.

**Families pay 10% less for a joint policy compared to the price of separate policies for each family member. Cover must include at least one adult and one or more children. Children do not have to live at the same address as the main member. This offer applies to the Bupa By You Comprehensive and Treatment and Care health insurance policies. This offer may change or be unavailable when you renew. See full terms and conditions here.

†Add more than one child under 20 years old to your policy and you’ll only pay for the eldest child, no matter how many more children you add. Children aged 20 or over cannot receive free cover or count as an ‘eldest child’ for this offer. Cover must include at least two children aged 19 or under. You’ll still receive our 10% family discount if you have free child cover. Children do not have to live at the same address as the main member. This offer may change or be unavailable when you renew. This offer applies to the Bupa By You Comprehensive and Treatment and Care health insurance policies. This offer may change or be unavailable when you renew. See full terms and conditions here.

Institute of Directors is an introducer to Insured Health Ltd. Insured Health Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England and Wales No: 9886202. Registered office: Saville House, 74-90 Savile Street, Sheffield, S4 7UD.

Bupa health insurance is provided by Bupa Insurance Limited. Registered in England and Wales with registration number 3956433. Bupa Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Arranged and administered by Bupa Insurance Services Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England and Wales with registration number 3829851. Registered office: 1 Angel Court, London, EC2R 7HJ.