For managers

These resources provide managers with practical tips to help with conversations about mental health in the workplace.
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Everyone has mental health, and nearly half of all New Zealanders are likely to experience a mental illness at some point in their lives, with depression and anxiety being the most common. 

In any workplace there will be a range of mental health experiences across employees and this will change over time.

There are huge benefits to creating a workplace culture where it’s okay to talk about mental health. Your employees are your greatest asset - you need them to feel confident, happy and engaged in their work, so that productivity is high. Opening up a dialogue about mental health in the workplace can result in:  
  • More positive mental health (less depression, stress, burnout)  
  • Better physical health  
  • Reduced absenteeism  
  • Lower staff turnover  
  • Improved work performance, motivation, commitment and energy 
  • Less tension and conflict, more connectedness, kindness, tolerance and patience.
There are several reasons to make mental health a priority in your workplace: 

  • Mental health issues are common 
  • Safe and healthy workplaces are good for business
  • Ignoring mental health issues costs employers
  • Mental health is affected by both work and what is happening in our lives
  • It is the law.

This guide provides information and guidance for managers to support someone experiencing mental distress with the aim to retain them in the workforce. 

These are guidelines and should be considered alongside individual workplace policies and procedures