World Mental Health Day reminds us that wellbeing is essential to a resilient and productive workforce. Each year, the day raises awareness of mental health and encourages employers to reflect on the support they provide.
It offers an opportunity to stop and think about the importance of mental health and for organisations to consider practical actions they could take to reduce risks and foster a safer, healthier working environment.
Mental health challenges remain a pressing issue for Irish employers. A 2024 CIPD Ireland survey revealed that 41% of HR professionals reported mental health-related absence as one of their most significant workplace challenges. This highlights the need to place wellbeing alongside performance.
As a INAB-accredited certification body, we certify organisations to internationally recognised standards such as ISO 45001 – the internationally recognised standard that specifies requirements for an Occupational Health and Safety management system – which can help businesses support safer and healthier workplaces.
Practical Ways to Boost Wellbeing at Work
Even small actions can shape a healthier, more supportive work environment. Here are four ideas Irish employers could consider:
- Sharing useful wellbeing tools: Circulating a helpful resource – such as a wellbeing podcast, or a wellbeing app, to raise awareness and encourage staff support.
- Promoting meaningful breaks: Reminding colleagues to take proper breaks away from the desk, as rest time can support concentration, safety, and wellbeing.
- Showing appreciation: Recognising a colleague’s contribution can lift morale and strengthen team connections.
- Walking discussions: Taking a meeting on foot can support physical health and often encourages more open, constructive conversations.
Learn more about potential ways to create a positive health and safety workplace culture.
Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace
Mental health is central to both safety and environmental, social and governance (ESG) responsibilities. Pressures such as workload, relationships, and work environment can all contribute to stress, depression, or anxiety, with real impacts on performance.
Because stigma remains a barrier, employers could consider taking steps to promote supportive cultures by reviewing Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) risks, improving working conditions, and providing access to confidential services like helplines.
How ISO 45001 Supports Workplace Mental Health and Safety
While everyday actions are important, real progress comes from structured internal approaches that last. This is where ISO standards can help provide strong foundations.
ISO 45001, the international standard for Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) management, can help organisations to:
- Identify and manage health and safety risks
- Embed wellbeing into existing safety systems
- Build resilience and strengthen safety outcomes
The Ultimate Guide to ISO 45001
Find out more about workplace safety with our Ultimate Guide to ISO 45001
Prioritising mental health can strengthen both people and organisations. Discover how ISO 45001 certification could support your business – contact our team to learn more.
