300 million people worldwide suffer from depression, according to the World Health Organisation, making it the leading cause of disability. 260 million more live with anxiety disorders. Besides the personal impact of each case, it is estimated that the annual toll in lost productivity is US$1 trillion.
Today, 10 October, is World Mental Health Day 2017 and this year's theme is mental health in the workplace.
Employers' duties in this area include to provide a safe system of work and not to discriminate against anyone with a mental health condition severe enough to constitute a disability.
Relevant projects on which clients have asked us to work with them include:
- Management training on topics including discrimination law and performance management.
- Drafting and implementing employee policies on issues such as sickness absence and equal opportunities.
- Developing approaches to flexible and agile working.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.