Whatever challenges next year brings, our Acas promise is that we will be there for all employers, employees and trade unions, supporting Britain’s workplaces for growth.
I wish you all a peaceful Christmas and happy 2025.Festive blues – how to support employee mental health
5 December 2024
Ruhel Ahmed , Acas Senior Policy Adviser
Ruhel works in the Inclusive Workplaces Policy team. He has a particular focus on mental health and neurodiversity. He has previously worked in the private sector helping organisations improve how they support employee wellbeing. He has also worked in central government supporting national policy reform.
For most, December is a joyous time of year, but it is also a time where difficulties can arise. For some vietnam phone number library the festive period comes with additional pressures. Work can add to the burden but can also play a part in easing it.
We want employers to understand the benefits open and honest communication can bring when it comes to supporting employee mental health and wellbeing.
What are the challenges of December?
Throughout December there are various challenges that can make life difficult. Some challenges that rapidly changing and complex customers can provide support for include:
increased workload
financial pressures
social interaction
seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Creating an environment where employees feel safe and supported to discuss their mental be numbers is crucial, especially in December.
Julie Dennis, Head of Inclusive Workplaces Policy at Acas, highlighted:
“We know from recent research and from talking to people ourselves, employees are far more likely to disclose mental health struggles, ask for support and reasonable adjustments when they feel they are in a safe and supportive work environment.”
A safe and supportive work environment develops through employers empowering employees to have open communication and honest conversations.
When employees feel they can communicate openly and have honest conversations with their employers, they can confidently and comfortably ask for support without fear of judgement and negative consequences.