Mental health: working from home and the use of technology

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss why mental health education in the workplace is vital. The paper aims to give HR managers and directors an understanding of mental health education and advice on how to imbed a culture of mental health well-being into the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

The feature identifies the issues faced in the UK’s workplace with mental health issues, such as stress, anxiety and depression. The research identifies much desktop research, as well as authors 20+ plus years’ experience of work, in the field as a qualified psychotherapist. The paper also addresses latest research that suggests employees are happier to turn to technology rather than human contact to address their mental health concerns. The feature was drafted during the Covid-19 pandemic when mental health issues were recorded at an all-time high.

Findings

Mental Health has become a major issue within the workplace, and much work has taken place to rid stigma of mental health issues. It is essential that industry embed mental health education into their organisations to create healthy futures for all. Employees want their organisations to offer support, preferably in an online, always available, service.

Originality/value

Although there’s much discussion and awareness of mental health issues, mental health education is rarely understood.

Citation

Newey, M. (2021), "Mental health: working from home and the use of technology", Strategic HR Review, Vol. 20 No. 4, pp. 114-118. https://doi.org/10.1108/SHR-01-2021-0001