Nearly one million workers in Britain are affected by mental health conditions linked to their jobs, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The agency estimates that around 964,000 employees suffer from work-related stress, depression, or anxiety. These conditions account for half of all work-related illnesses and are responsible for 22.1 million lost working days, representing 62 percent of all days lost due to occupational ill health.

The HSE has urged businesses to proactively identify signs of stress among their employees and take appropriate steps to address these issues. Speaking with staff about workplace challenges can help employers recognize potential sources of stress and determine where adjustments may be necessary to reduce pressure.

Employers are legally required to assess the risk of stress-related ill health arising from work activities and to implement effective control measures. The HSE highlights that work-related stress often emerges when job demands, or the way work is organised and managed, create pressures that are excessive or difficult for employees to manage.

This call to action coincides with World Mental Health Day, as the HSE seeks to raise awareness of the significant impact work-related mental health conditions have on individuals and organisations. The agency encourages companies to prioritise employee wellbeing and to adopt a preventative approach to managing workplace stress.