5m people have had time off for mental health this year

More than five million people have taken time off work for mental health reasons over the last 12 months. 

According to Unmind, this means 16% of the UK’s working population were off work because of their mental health at some point this year. 

This problem is particularly acute among younger employees, with 30% of Gen-Z employees being signed off work in 2024 for mental health. 

That’s almost two million young people. 

While countless organisations offer employee assistance programs (EAPs), including physical and mental health support, they’re often having a limited impact as too many people don’t know they exist. 

In fact, just 41% of UK employees polled by Unmind actually knew that their employer offered an EAP. 

But interestingly, younger people appeared to be more clued up on EAPs, with nearly two-thirds of Gen-Z employees choosing to access the support that’s available. 

The findings clearly suggest that simply having EAPs in place isn’t enough. 

Employers need to do more to let their people know what’s on offer and what difference it can make to their lives. 

Another focus should be on providing the type of perks, benefits and support that people actually want. 

For example, more than a third of employees said flexible working arrangements are their biggest priority. 

Meanwhile, many were interested in the idea of their employer embracing technologies such as AI, especially younger people. 

For instance, almost half of under-35s said they’d trust mental health advice given by an AI-based platform. 

A key problem facing employers is that many members of the workforce feel uncomfortable seeking help when it comes to their mental heath. 

Figures from Unmind showed that nearly one in five people wouldn’t feel comfortable asking for leave because of mental health issues. 

While mental health can be an awkward subject to discuss, the findings highlight the need for employers to foster a culture where people can be open and honest with their manager about anything that may be troubling them. 

Dr Nick Taylor, chief executive of Unmind, said: “The research clearly highlights the need for employers to step up and help their staff thrive - especially younger employees, who are disproportionately affected by mental health absences.  

“Organisations must move beyond traditional approaches and embrace flexibility, innovation, and open dialogue to foster positive workplace cultures.”