Britain is experiencing a severe mental health crisis, with a sharp rise in work absences caused by stress, anxiety, and depression.
A recent survey shows nearly one in four workers (23%) took multiple mental health days off in the past year. Additionally, over a third (35%) reported a drop in productivity due to poor mental health.
The research, conducted by Chrysalis, the UK’s largest counsellor training provider, highlights the growing impact of mental health on the workplace.
Poor mental health costs UK employers an estimated £45 billion every year, with 12.8 million working days lost to work-related stress, anxiety, or depression. This not only reduces productivity but also strains the healthcare system.
Experts warn of a “national crisis of resilience.” Some argue that normal emotions like tiredness, low mood, and frustration are increasingly being labeled as mental health issues, leading to more sick leave. Economic pressures, such as household debt and insecure housing, are also linked to rising stress levels, according to mental health charity Mind.
Access to mental health services remains a major problem. One in five workers considered quitting their jobs due to lack of support, and nearly a quarter struggled to find local therapy or counselling. Digital therapy is becoming more popular, with 37% open to online support if it were easier to access.
Regional differences are stark. Almost half (48%) of workers in the North-East say poor mental health has hurt their work, compared to just 20% in Wales.
The government’s “Get Britain Working” plan aims to help sick and disabled people return to work. However, critics fear cuts to disability benefits and pressure on mental health services could undermine these efforts.
Ross Elliott, CEO of Chrysalis, said the government must address the mental health toll caused by the pandemic, financial stress, and global tensions. The number of people out of work due to long-term sickness has reached a record 2.8 million, while NHS mental health funding is set to fall in real terms despite growing demand.
This data underscores the urgent need for better mental health support in workplaces and communities across Britain.
