Employers have "huge role" in tackling mental health problems

16th March 2010

Supervisors play an important part in tackling the stigma many people experience when they admit to having a mental health problem.

This is according to Rethink policy manager Antonia Borneo, who said some bosses can often feel "ill-equipped" to handle situations like this.

"Line managers have a huge role to play in tackling workplace stigma and helping people with mental illness to remain in work," she commented.

This is despite many companies implementing policies aimed at preventing discrimination and prejudice towards individuals with mental health concerns, the specialist claimed.

Her comments come as the organisation revealed 32 per cent of British adults would not feel "at all" comfortable discussing conditions such as depression with their superiors.

These statistics reflect the experiences of our members, Ms Borneo added.

Earlier this year, Rethink welcomed the government's decision to stop employers asking job applicants about their medical history before they are interviewed for a position.