Just because a mental health problem isn’t obvious, doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.
Mental health charity Mind says 1 in 4 people in England experiences some sort of mental health issue each year, with 1 in 6 reporting a mental health problem in any given week.
Staff wellbeing is vital for the health of the individual and for the health of the business, and employers have a duty of care to their employees. This means they must do all they reasonably can to support their employees’ health, safety and wellbeing.
If staff members are struggling, it can result in a lack of productivity and absenteeism, so it is important to provide a supportive environment and to listen to the employee’s concerns, to provide the best outcome.
Depression can take many forms and is not a one-size-fits-all situation. In the workplace, it can manifest itself in a lack of motivation, fatigue, lapses in concentration, seeking isolation and periods of absenteeism or, conversely, working longer hours to escape and take their minds off outside issues.
This may also result in behavioural changes, with difficulties in making decisions, speaking and thinking clearly, trouble remembering things and being restless or agitated among the most common seen at work.
Without treatment and support, depression can impact your relationships, work, finances and overall health, so it’s important to get help as early as possible.
A change in diet and getting plenty of exercise are known to help with depression. Talking about how you are feeling, rather than bottling up your emotions can also assist in thinking through and compartmentalising your mindset – whether that is with a friend, colleague or a professional therapist or doctor.
Some people prefer to pay for psychological treatment, to give them a tailored service unique to them and the problems they are experiencing. This is a useful option to have as it can be done discreetly and doesn’t need to involve anyone else. These practitioners provide guidance and plans that strengthen resilience going forward.
However, it is not a simple fix, and depression can last for many months. Often, it is a case of managing it rather than curing it. “Every treatment strategy is as unique as the client,” says Dr Claudia M. Elsig MD from The CALDA Clinic. “There cannot be routine and automatism in psychiatry.” Depression tends to manifest itself as a build-up of lots of things, often triggered by a particular event, so it is not easily stopped.
Unfortunately, there’s still a stigma surrounding mental health. Dealing with depression at work must include recognising employees won’t naturally open up about their struggles. They may worry that it could affect their future with the business. It’s important to handle the subject carefully, so as not to make the individual’s situation worse.
One of the first approaches an employer can take is making sure the employee doesn’t have any triggers for depression at their place of work, including (but not limited to):
It’s helpful if employers create an environment where staff feel able to talk openly about mental health. For example, treating psychological and physical health as equally important, making sure employees have regular one-to-ones with their managers to talk about any problems they are having, and encouraging positive mental health by arranging mental health awareness training, workshops or appointing mental health ‘champions’ with whom staff can talk about their issues.
Absenteeism is a particularly common problem for people suffering from mental health issues. Sometimes they can find it difficult to get out of bed or want to isolate themselves from other people. Other times, it can turn into a physical ailment such as migraines or digestive troubles. Time off for depression is a grey area, and a note from a doctor explaining the situation can be required.
However, if the employer has recognised the symptoms of depression and talked it through with the employee, they may feel more able to open up and feel comfortable at work, knowing that they have the support and understanding of their manager. There are even toolkits available for employers to help them deal with potential absences due to mental health, and the best method to take, ensuring an official and impartial approach.
Mental health is a difficult subject to talk about without the right support networks in place, and nowhere is that more important than in the workplace. Nobody wants to feel that they are unable to do their job or to let their employer down.
Fear of losing their job can just add to the feelings of depression and make things worse, resulting in a spiral of depressive thinking. But, by offering a supportive and non-judgmental environment, and the promise of confidentiality, employers could find their employees wanting to reward them for their sensitivity and acceptance with productivity.
Gemma Williams is an independent HR professional working remotely from as many coffee shops as she can find. Gemma has gained experience in several HR roles but now turns her focus towards growing her personal brand and connecting with leading experts in career development and employee engagement. Connect with her on Twitter: @GemmaWilliamsHR
May
19may18:0020:30The Future of Fairness in Leadership and Business | WBS
19/05/2025 18:00 - 20:30(GMT+01:00)
WBS at the Shard
London, SE1 9SG
This is your chance to engage in powerful dialogue and spark meaningful change in your professional sphere. After the panel discussion, network with peers from across industries
After the panel discussion, network with peers from across industries over drinks and canapés, against the vibrant backdrop of London.
This event is held annually in collaboration with our partners We are the City, Women Engineering Society, Forte, City Women Network and 30% Chair; We are delighted to welcome a distinguished line-up of keynote speakers:
Dr Dawn Eubanks – Associate Professor of Behavioural Science & EI and Panel Chair
Rukasana Bhaijee – Global Head of DEI at the Financial Times. A DEI leader with over 13 years of experience across media, technology, professional services, and higher education. Formerly led DEI for Google’s EMEA tech division and consulted at EY, Rukasana brings deep expertise in strategy, race equity, and inclusive culture change.
Geraldine Gallacher – CEO of the Executive Coaching Consultancy, author of Coaching Women: Changing the System, Not the Person, and City Women Network Board member.
Mark Swain – WBS Client Director & Executive Coach, and Fellow of The Learning and Performance Institute. With over 20 years experience in leadership development Mark has developed a framework supporting Women in Strategy.
Ben Evans – New Business Director, AtkinsRéalis, ED&I Advocate and Warwick MBA Alumnus (2013)
Together, they’ll share their invaluable insights, strategies, and real-world experiences in fostering fairness and driving success in today’s dynamic and changing corporate landscape.
Key Topics Include:
Whether you’re a mid-career professional, an established leader, or an entrepreneur passionate about shaping the future of fairness, this event will leave you inspired and equipped to make a lasting impact.
Free
21may12:0013:00Master the Art of Incredible Interviews | WeAreTheCity & City CV
21/05/2025 12:00 - 13:00(GMT+01:00)
WeAreTheCity & City CV are thrilled to present a
Do interviews leave you feeling uneasy, underprepared or unsure of how to showcase your best self? Are you stuck in a loop of missed opportunities, wondering how to stand out and seal the deal? You’re not the only one. On average, people apply for 27 roles before they land just one interview.
But don’t worry – you’re in the right place. Whether it’s been years since your last interview, you’re chasing a promotion or new role, or simply trying to stay sharp, this free one-hour masterclass will give you the edge to win your next role. Your interview isn’t just a conversation – it’s a marketing pitch where you’re the product. Discover how to demonstrate your value, convince employers you’re the best investment they can make, and leave them thinking, “We’d be foolish not to hire you.”
In this jam-packed session, Victoria McLean, Founder & CEO of City CV, guides you through the art of wowing interviewers. With a proven track record of helping people at all career levels secure their dream roles, Victoria brings decades of expertise, countless success stories and award-winning career strategies to the table.
What you’ll learn:
Looking for more career support? Explore our Career Resources page. Ready to take the next step? Browse the latest opportunities on our Job Board and find your perfect role today!
23may10:0012:00Online* Pelvic Floor Recovery Workshop FREE | Karen Ellis - Postnatal Recovery Expert
23/05/2025 10:00 - 12:00(GMT+01:00)
With former Midwife, Karen Ellis. *Available on replay. Exactly how to rebuild strength in your pelvic floor after pregnancy. All the information you should have got from
All the information you should have got from your midwife about how to recover your pelvic floor PROPERLY after having a baby and how to exercise SAFELY so you can smile with excitement and enjoy the moment when your toddler takes your hand and pulls you towards the bouncy castle instead of the feeling of dread taking over as you decline their invitation.
You are a mum who;
And so you can have dry knickers!
Free