Supporting Employee Wellbeing: Mental Health Awareness Week 2025

Mental Health Awareness Week is taking place between 12th and 18th May 2025 and is an important reminder that wellbeing should be a year-round priority, not just a seasonal focus.

As defined by the Mental Health Foundation, the theme for 2025 is 'Community'. Being part of a safe, positive community is vital for our mental health and wellbeing. We thrive when we have strong connections with other people and supportive communities that remind us, we are not alone. Communities can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and give us a sense of purpose.

For employers, supporting mental health isn’t just the right thing to do, it also builds resilient and more engaged teams. Here’s how you can make a real impact:

• Create a Safe Space For Employees: Encourage open conversations around mental health and promote a culture of acceptance. Normalising discussions can reduce the stigma and help employees feel more supported.

• Offer Flexibility: Small steps such as flexible working hours, hybrid working and wellness breaks can help employees better manage their wellbeing.

• Provide Access to Resources: Make sure your employees know where to turn if they need support. National charities such as Mind and Samaritans both have incredible support lines, free guides and online tools. Also promote the use of local charities and community support groups, as these often provide tailored support closer to home.

• Internal Networks: Consider setting up an internal network or support group where employees can connect, share experiences and access peer support.

• Introduce Mental Health First Aiders: Train selected members of your team to become Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAs) to act as essential points of contact for anyone experiencing mental health difficulties at work and to signpost them to the right professional support.

• Training and Development: Equip your leadership team with the skills to spot early signs of mental health struggles and respond appropriately. A little training can go a long way.

• Wellbeing Initiatives: Wellness days, webinars, lunch and learns and Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) all show your team that you care.

Investing in your employees' mental health isn’t just good for them, it’s good for business too. Happier, healthier teams are more engaged, productive, and loyal.

At Dodds Consultancy Group, we can help you create a Wellbeing Strategy that truly works. Need help improving your workplace wellbeing approach? Get in touch today!