Let’s Talk: Men’s Mental Health in the Workplace

Over the years, mental health has become a more prominent topic of conversation, especially in the workplace. However, despite significant progress, mental health issues among men often remain shrouded in secrecy due to fears of stigma

Mental wellbeing in the workplace is a hot topic, with organisations increasingly seeking ways to foster better health and create more inclusive, supportive environments. While schools should support all employees, it is important to recognise that mental health conditions present differently in men and women, therefore different approaches to support may be required.

In a survey of 1,000 men, 77% reported experiencing mental health symptoms, yet only 40% of them had sought help or spoken to someone about it. Alarmingly, nearly 30% cited concerns about stigma and embarrassment as the reason for not seeking help. The survey also revealed that working-aged men are the most at risk of developing harmful mental health symptoms.

Removing the stigma

One of the most crucial steps you can take to support men’s mental health is to foster a culture of openness about the topic. If you have a mental health first aider in your school, it is important to work with them to create opportunities for team members to seek support in ways that are comfortable for them. If you do not have an internal mental health first aider, investing in a training course for employees open to taking on the role is highly worthwhile.

For men, access to online or app-based support can be particularly beneficial as it alleviates the pressure of face-to-face interactions. Schools should guide employees to various available mental health services. Additionally, it is advisable to review mental health policies to ensure they address the unique needs of both male and female employees, avoiding a one-size-fits-all approach.

Understanding the signs

Studies have shown that men experiencing mental health symptoms often resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as poor diet, increased alcohol consumption, or sudden risk-taking behaviour. All members of the school team should be aware that these can be warning signs of a mental health condition. However, it’s important to approach conversations about these issues with care to avoid appearing judgmental.

Early intervention and prevention are crucial. SBLs should encourage employees to address concerns about workload, pressures and burnout before they escalate. This can be as simple as incorporating an employee wellbeing check into one-on-one meetings. Additionally, you could consider offering stress-management training as a standard component of all professional development plans. Training in mental health awareness should be provided for all members of the school leadership team, to ensure everyone across the organisation is working to the same shared goals and objectives.

Offering flexibility

According to the Mental Health Foundation, less than 40% of talking therapy referrals are for men. Research shows that men are less likely to take time off work to address mental health issues and are also less likely to schedule appointments with health practitioners.

It is vital that everyone in the school leadership team, from across all departments should have the right knowledge and resources to empower employees to prioritise their mental health. This might be by allowing them the necessary time off for appointments, without worrying about operational impacts. This might involve adjusting tasks, shifting deadlines or reducing workloads. Access to occupational health services can also provide men with essential support and resources to manage their mental health effectively at work.

By creating inclusive environments that recognise and cater to the diverse mental wellbeing needs of all genders, fostering open dialogue, providing accessible support channels and promoting early intervention, organisations can empower employees to prioritise their mental health effectively. This approach not only supports productivity but also enhances overall wellness in the workplace.