Promoting Employee Wellbeing Through Action: Mental Health Awareness Week 2026

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Promoting Employee Wellbeing Through Action: Mental Health Awareness Week 2026

As we mark Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 (11^th May to 17^th May), we are proud to support and discuss this year’s theme around the power and importance of taking ‘action’ to improve mental wellbeing.

The Mental Health Foundation provides valuable resources and information and their website can be found here.

Alarmingly 51% of long-term sick leave in the workplace is due to stress, depression, or anxiety according to a report by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) from 2022.

Small actions can have a big impact and there are tips on HSE’s website.

Some examples of potential actions to benefit emotional wellbeing are: –

Move More: Regular physical activity can boost an individual’s mood and self-esteem. It can also prevent heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer amongst other conditions.

Eat Well: A healthy, balanced diet and staying hydrated can support your emotional health.

Talk it Over: It is a common failing as a society that we don’t want to burden others with our problems and yet we will all come up against difficult circumstances in our lives that affect us emotionally. Talking things through can provide relief and make us feel less alone.

Prioritise Sleep: Disrupted or insufficient sleep can increase stress and depression. Suggested steps include reducing screen time, a steady bedtime and ensuring winding down before sleep. Meditation can also assist in this regard.

Enjoy Nature: According to a 2021 report from the Mental Health Foundation, 70% of UK adults agreed being close to nature improves their mood and 49% said being close to nature helps them to cope with stress.

An employer has a big part to play in delivering these actions to their employees.

Employee benefits can assist in a number of ways. To name a few:

• Assistance programmes can support employees and allow them to talk to professionals who can provide help and guidance.
• Resources can be provided such as physical workout videos, nutritional consultations and advice. There may also be breathing exercise videos and meditation and mindfulness resources to assist with relaxation and sleep.
• Retail discount platforms include offers on gyms and fitness classes as well as holiday breaks.

Please speak to one of our Employee Benefit Consultants today to discuss how Cartlidge Morland can assist you in this area.