How to Support Staff Experiencing Poor Mental Health

Mental health in the workplace is no longer something organisations can afford to overlook. In the UK, 28% of sick days are linked to mental health-related issues, and 61% of employees who left or plan to leave their job in the next 12 months cite poor mental health as a factor. These statistics highlight a growing challenge for employers: how to meaningfully support staff experiencing poor mental health.

Providing the right support is not just a legal requirement. It is also good for business. A workforce that feels safe, supported, and understood is more productive, engaged, and loyal.

Employer Responsibilities and the Law

Under the Equality Act 2010, a mental health condition may be classed as a disability if it has a substantial and long-term impact on someone’s ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. Where this applies, employees are legally protected from discrimination, and employers are required to make reasonable adjustments to support them at work.

Failing to do so not only risks breaching employment law but can also damage workplace culture and employer reputation.

Practical Ways Employers Can Support Mental Health at Work

Creating a mentally healthy workplace goes beyond ticking compliance boxes. It requires proactive, thoughtful steps, such as:

  • Regular one-to-one check-ins. Encourage open and honest conversations, allowing employees to discuss any challenges they are facing in a safe and supportive environment.

  • Mental Health First Aid training. Equip key staff with the skills to spot early signs of distress and provide immediate, practical support.

  • Wellbeing Action Plans (WAPs). Help employees identify triggers, coping strategies, and the type of support they find most helpful.

  • Tailored reasonable adjustments. These may include flexible hours, reduced workload, a quiet workspace, or additional breaks. Seek medical or occupational health advice where necessary to inform decisions.

  • Awareness and culture. Promote open dialogue about mental health, challenge stigma, and ensure managers are trained to handle sensitive conversations with confidence.

Why Supporting Mental Health Benefits Your Business

Supporting staff mental health is about more than avoiding legal risk. It creates a positive cycle for organisations:

  • Reduced sickness absence and presenteeism

  • Improved staff morale and engagement

  • Higher retention rates, reducing recruitment costs

  • A stronger reputation as an employer of choice

How We Can Help

At Target HR, we support businesses to manage and promote mental health in the workplace. From Mental Health First Aid training to practical advice on managing difficult situations and making reasonable adjustments, we help employers build supportive and compliant people practices.

If you would like to learn more about how to support staff experiencing poor mental health, or if you need tailored HR advice, get in touch with our team today.

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