Data from HCML, the leading corporate health and wellbeing specialist, shows that the number of mental health assessments carried out in the last year was up 38% when compared to 2022/23.
With Mental Health Awareness Week upon us, HCML’s research shows that for all these individuals, 95% did not meet the recommended activity guidelines, highlighting the need to get people moving more.
The data shows that in nearly half (49%) of those assessments, the main symptom reported was anxiety and depression. Just over a third (35%) of assessments were related to stress, and 8% were for bereavement.
Pamala Gellatly, Strategic Development Director, HCML, says: “Nearly 12.7% of workplace absences are due to mental health problems. This comes as no great surprise when you consider perceived sources of stress such as worries about work, homelife, on top of financial worries.
“Workplace absence due to mental health can cost employers millions of pounds and its therefore imperative 
that we get these individuals access to the right support.
“Research shows that being more active has exponential benefits to both our mental and physical health. Encouraging employees to move more is really important. This isn’t about asking everyone to join a gym or start running, but encouraging them to take regular breaks from their desk or work to move around and look after themselves. Organise company events that get people outside and moving or introducing lunchtime walks.
“Treating mental health issues is not about finding a quick-fix solution, but taking the right steps to achieve long-lasting results. Companies must be extra vigilant and keep a close eye on how their employees are coping and look out for signs of burnout and stress. The quicker an employee can access care and support, the better the results.”
HCML is a leading provider of health, wellbeing, case management, rehabilitation and treatment services to the corporate, legal, insurance and private medical insurance markets.
Through its workplace offering, HCML provides integrated healthcare solutions, working with employers to prevent the risk of ill health and absence and improve employee health and wellbeing. As an independent provider of personal injury case management, HCML supports rehabilitation clients to make a sustained recovery from injury. HCML’s Rehabilitation Case Managers, who are clinical experts, provide rehabilitation programs that help clients achieve maximum independence and a better future.