Employees shun workplace mental health support
Just over a third (37%) of workers say they would turn to employer-provided mental health support, according to a survey by employee wellbeing service Kara Connect, published on 19 October 2026. A survey of 2,010 UK employees found that while 91% have access to employer-provided mental health support, just 37% of respondents said they would use it. Almost as many (29%) said they would feel embarrassed about asking for help, and 23% said they think their problems aren’t serious enough.
Zoe Sinclair, founder of workplace mental health support organisation This Can Happen told HR magazine several ways HR can help increase uptake of mental health resources.
“It all starts with awareness,” Sinclair said. “Create a clear route for employees to access support and remind them of the support available at regular intervals throughout the year. This shouldn’t start and end with World Mental Health Day or Mental Health Awareness Week but should be part of a wider drumbeat of activity throughout the year.”
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