43% of working men want more mental health support from employers

New research by BUPA has revealed that two in five (43%) of working men would like to see more mental health support within the workplace from employers.

These figures come in from healthcare provider BUPA’s most recent wellbeing index, which surveyed 8,000 UK adults.

The survey uncovered that 50% of male respondents reported either having mental health challenges now or in the past, with job-related unhappiness (20%), self-confidence issues (27%), and life events causing trauma (25%), within the most impactful factors on mental health.

30% of male respondents (three in ten) said they do not know where to turn regarding advice on mental wellbeing.

65% of employees (two-thirds) agreed that men’s mental health comes with a stigma attached, with one-tenth of those who agreed being of the belief that the stigma has worsened in recent times.

Fewer than half of the men who have faced issues with their mental health have gone on to seek medical advice, with under one in three having confided in their partner (30%), family (26%) or friends (24%). Over one-third (37%) admitted that they had actively hidden mental health issues from loved ones.

BUPA UK’s medical Director, Dr Naveen Puri, said:

“It’s important we encourage and support men to be more open about their mental wellbeing and to seek the support they need. There are signs that someone might be struggling with their mental health, such as feeling low, being more worried than usual and having trouble sleeping.

“But men might also display other signs such as being irritable, being aggressive, having sudden bursts of anger, losing control or taking more risks. If employers recognise any of these signs, it might be a good idea to reach out to employees and offer help and support.”

BUPA Global’s India and UK CEO, Carlos Jaureguizar, added:
“For men, confidential support can make a huge difference. Where they may struggle to speak to their loved ones about their health through fear of failure or weakness, anonymised support and a safe place to speak openly can break the barrier of outdated male stereotypes.

“It’s essential that businesses support normalising conversations about mental health and provide access to confidential services, to retain valuable talent in their workforce.”

Further reading

Stress at work claims – Oakwood Solicitors

Managing work-related stress – ACAS

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