The vast majority of employers and managers are considered to be in need of education and training on mental health issues and how to better manage it in the workplace by their employees, according to a new report released by national mental health charity SANE Australia.

The research found that 95 per cent of employees feel that their managers need to better understand the impacts of mental health issues.

“How do managers tackle the issue of mental illness at work? It's a major problem throughout Australia, affecting many people and costing the economy over $6.5 billion every year,” SANE Australia’s CEO Jack Heath said.

“As the recent Report Card of the National Mental Health Commission highlighted, more is required to assist people once they are working.”

A recent survey conducted by SANE Australia found that the majority of the 520 people surveyed said that no support had been offered o them at work when mentally unwell, and less than half of managers (43 per cent) were thought to have an understanding of mental health issues.

“It’s important to promote awareness about mental illness and the factors that contribute to it, such as bullying and work stress. Managers need to take the initiative and raise the topic of mental health in a routine team meeting, to ensure a neutral, open and non-stigmatising forum,” Mr Heath said.

SANE Australia has offered a four-step approach that can be taken by managers if they notice changes in an employer’s work or behavioural patterns towards staff:

  1. Plan a meeting with the staff member – think about what you want to say and stay focused on work-related issues;
  2. Set-up the meeting at an appropriate time and place, ensuring the employee feels comfortable and well-supported;
  3. Express your concerns in a non-confronting and clear manner – it can be helpful to give examples of what you feel are concerning changes;
  4. Offer support if required, including an employee assistance program (EAP) and how can it assist, suggest your employee visit their GP or discuss possible workplace adjustments.