Challenging the stigma: Mental health disclosure in the workplace

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Published: 10 October, 2024
 
A recent web poll conducted by Hays, the global leader in workforce solutions and specialist recruitment, has revealed that most professionals don’t feel comfortable talking openly about their mental health in the workplace.
 
The poll of over 8,300 professionals showed that more than half (53%) of workers are hesitant to discuss their mental health at work. The reluctance is believed to stem from fears of discrimination and unequal opportunities.
 
In a separate poll, Hays asked over 4,000 respondents who they would feel most comfortable discussing their mental health with if they were to do so at work. Findings indicate that less than a quarter (24%) of employees feel at ease talking about their mental health with HR or management. In contrast, over two fifths (44%) are comfortable speaking with a Mental Health First Aider, and one in three (32%) feel comfortable discussing their mental health with colleagues.
 
The data highlights the importance of Mental Health First Aiders, as professionals are more comfortable discussing mental health issues with them compared to HR, managers, or colleagues. Mental Health First Aiders are a valuable resource to organisations, as they can help provide support to those experiencing poor mental health.
 
Despite initiatives such as Mental Health Days, the stigma surrounding mental health continues to prevent workers from seeking help. Creating an open culture where workers feel comfortable talking about their mental health is beneficial to employers, as it can reduce turnover, create a positive working environment, increase performance, and lower burnout amongst employees.
 
Eliza Kirkby, Managing Director of Hays in ANZ for Professional recruitment, comments: “Mental health is essential to employee wellbeing and productivity. However, some Australians still feel reluctant to discuss mental health at work, fearing it could negatively impact their career.”
 
“The data highlights the critical role that Mental Health First Aiders play in fostering a supportive work environment, as employees are more comfortable speaking with them rather than HR or managers. For Australian businesses, introducing Mental Health First Aiders is a straightforward yet impactful way to show employees they have access to support when they need it.”
 
“There are a few additional simple steps Australian organisations can take to create a supportive environment for their employees. The first step is to provide mental health training for people managers and secondly, ensure employees have access to confidential mental health resources, so they can seek help anonymously if needed.”
 
“As the workplace continues to evolve, it’s essential for companies to regularly update their mental health policies to keep pace with employees' changing needs and expectations.”
 
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For further information please contact media@hays.com.au 

About Hays

Hays plc (the "Group") is the world’s leading specialist in recruitment and workforce solutions, such as Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) and Managed Service Provider (MSP). The Group is the expert at recruiting qualified, professional, and skilled people worldwide, being the market leader in the UK, Germany, and Australia and one of the market leaders in Continental Europe, Latin America, and Asia. The Group operates across the private and public sectors, dealing in permanent positions, contract roles and temporary assignments. As of 30 June 2025, the Group employed over 9,500 staff operating from 207 offices in 30 countries.


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