Mental ill health has a greater impact on people’s attendance and performance at work than many other health conditions. The prevalence of mental health problems in the workforce is not greatly different from that of the general population. On average, nearly one in six of any workforce has been affected by a mental health condition such as depression, anxiety or stress. The rate increases to over one in five if alcohol and drug dependence are also taken into account. It is important to note though that only a small percentage (< 15%) of mental ill health in the workplace is directly related to work.

The cost to organizations is often underestimated but it is actually believed to be enormous. The main costs of mental ill health at work are hidden costs, particularly those associated with “presenteeism” defined as “the loss in productivity that occurs when people come to work but perform at less than full capacity because of ill health”. On the other hand, sickness absence is a more visible cost and is certainly important. Another cost is related to the provision of various types of mental health consultations.
 Mental ill health in the workforce is certainly very important and cannot be ignored due to its impact on business.