Time to talk day: mental health and employee retention

What is Time to Talk day?

Time to Talk Day is a national day in the UK dedicated to raising awareness of mental health. It's a fantastic opportunity for employers to open up conversations about mental wellbeing in the workplace.

With the average person spending just under 90,000 hours working in their lifetime, and 36% of employees unsatisfied in their current job, it's more important than ever to talk about how our work intersects with our lives and wellbeing.

For employers, the truth is that employee mental health impacts your bottom line. Happy and healthy employees are more productive, more engaged, and less likely to leave. If you’re finding this to be a key challenge in your organisation, you’re not alone. In fact, 44% of businesses struggled to retain top talent in the last 12 months.

Retain with a stronger EVP

Here's why prioritising mental health is essential for employee retention:

Attracting and retaining top talent: Michael Page Talent Trends data shows 89% of employees consider work-life balance important, and 64% would even refuse a promotion to protect their wellbeing. By demonstrating a genuine commitment to employee mental health, you'll attract top talent and reduce employee turnover.
Increased productivity and engagement: When employees feel valued and supported, they're more likely to be engaged and productive. Studies have shown that happy employees are 13% more productive. By creating a mentally healthy workplace, you're investing in your team's success and your company's overall performance.
Reduced absenteeism: Poor mental health is a major driver behind absenteeism. By addressing mental health concerns proactively, you can reduce sick leave and improve overall workplace attendance.
Improved company culture: A culture that prioritises mental health fosters trust, open communication, and a sense of belonging. This leads to a more positive and supportive work environment where employees feel valued and respected.

So, how can you make mental health a priority in your workplace?

Open the lines of communication: Encourage open conversations about mental health. Create a safe and supportive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental wellbeing without fear of judgment.
Offer flexible working options: Flexible work arrangements, such as remote work, flexible hours, and job sharing, can significantly improve work-life balance and reduce stress. 44% of employees value flexible working options, and it's a key factor in attracting and retaining talent.
Provide mental health resources: Offer access to employee assistance programmes (EAPs), mental health training for managers, and on-site mental health support.
Recognise and appreciate employees: Show your employees that you value their contributions. Regularly express gratitude, offer recognition, and provide opportunities for growth and development. 23% of employees value career progression, and 22% value training and development.
Promote work-life balance: Encourage employees to take breaks, use their vacation time, and disconnect from work outside of work hours.

By prioritising mental health, you're not just doing the right thing; you're also making a smart business decision. A mentally healthy workforce is a productive, engaged, and loyal workforce. Time to Talk Day is a great starting point for a conversation about mental health in your workplace.

To learn more practical tips on how to create a supportive and positive workplace that attracts and retains top talent, download our free eBook, How to craft a powerful EVP – simply tell us where to send your copy by completing our quick form:

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