Education workers have poorest mental health
Just over half (54%) of those who work in Education told Benenden Health their mental health is 'good'.
30 September 2024, by Megan Anderson.
Affordable healthcare provider Benenden Health has found that employees in the education sector have the poorest mental health, with just over half (54%) of employees rating their mental health as ‘good’, ranking the lowest amongst industry sectors surveyed.
Education employees also ranked the lowest when asked if they think mental health is considered a high priority by their employer (35%), compared to those working in Construction (42%), Professional Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM) (51%), and Human Health & Social Care (52%).
This research was conducted by Benenden Health to gain insight into the nation's mental health and workplace experiences, aiming to support businesses in bridging the identified gaps.
When identifying what is causing poor mental health at work, stress is found to be the most common mental health issue across all sectors, with an average of 56%. However, education employees lead in experiencing the highest levels of stress (61%).
Education workers also reported the highest incidence of burnout (22%), compared to other sectors such as Construction (11%).
These findings mirror those of Education Support’s latest Teacher Wellbeing Index, which highlights that the main causes of poor mental health among education staff are persistent high levels of stress, presenteeism, and a lack of support from employers.
Benenden Health's findings are further compounded by the UK’s ongoing teaching recruitment crisis. The National Foundation for Educational Research’s (NFER) 2024 'Teacher Labour Market in England Annual Report’ shows that recruitment and retention issues within the sector persist due to increased workload pressures since the pandemic.
In stark contrast, 87% of education leaders said they feel their mental health culture is 'more open' compared with five years ago. However, the same research found that only 38% of all business leaders surveyed said they could ‘definitely’ identify a struggling employee. Rebecca Mian, Director of People Services at Benenden Health, comments:
“Our findings are a tough read, especially for those who are helping our children and young people develop their skills for future success. To improve education workers’ mental health and provision, it’s important to look at what is unique about their day-to-day role and build an effective strategy around it.
“Even though the school day finishes around 3 pm, teachers and support workers stay behind much longer and work late hours planning for the next day and marking the day's work. Flexibility in their mental health support will be crucial here, as they may not be able to visit the GP or a mental health specialist in the middle of the day. A 24/7 mental health helpline, such as Benenden Health's, would allow workers to have an initial conversation remotely.
“Consider the culture in their workplace, too. Education workers are so busy focusing on their students’ wellbeing that they often overlook their own. A positive culture promotes conversation, allows employees to voice their challenges, and provides support so staff feel seen and valued, while signposting to internal and external support.
“Allowing teachers time and space to say if they are struggling, without judgement, may also reduce the high levels of stress they are experiencing as it gives them the power to take control over their mental health without stigma.”
Jemma Williamson, Corporate Mental Health Practitioner at Vita Health Group adds:
“Creating a workplace that prioritises mental health is essential for fostering a positive and productive environment.
“By being open about mental health, providing necessary resources, and embedding these values into the organisational culture, companies can make a significant positive difference in their employees’ lives. This approach not only enhances individual wellbeing but also contributes to a more resilient and thriving workplace.”
To read more about Benenden Health’s mental health report and access its support, visit our page Mental Health in the Workplace.