In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on mental health support in the workplace. A happier workforce is generally more productive, but it’s important to recognise that employees do not exist in isolation. They have families, including parents, partners, and children, all of whom have their own mental health needs. Tellmi is a digital solution that supports employees while also providing services to their families. This approach takes into account the home lives of employees because the mental health of family members, especially children, can significantly impact an employee’s productivity at work.
According to a UK study conducted by Morgan Stanley and Place2Be, 75% of parents expressed concerns about their children’s mental health. Additionally, 48% of these parents reported that their children’s mental health struggles negatively affected their own work performance, leading to difficulties with concentration and disruptions. Moreover, 12% of concerned working parents considered reducing their working hours to support their children, while 8% even contemplated quitting their jobs altogether.
When parents worry about their child’s wellbeing, it can increase their own stress and anxiety. This relationship is bidirectional; children whose parents face mental health challenges are more likely to experience mental health issues themselves.
Many people worry about seeking workplace support because they fear that it will go on their record or impact their career prospects if they are seen to be displaying perceived ‘weaknesses’. There may also be concerns about the confidentiality of any support offered.
Senior leaders can help address those concerns by actively promoting support schemes, talking positively about the benefits of seeking support, and ensuring employees can seek help confidentially. Tellmi is completely anonymous and no information is shared with employers.
Providing effective mental health benefits is also often costly and typically restricted by limited session caps and eligibility requirements. However, in Leicestershire, the NHS has funded a service that supports not only employees but also their entire families. Tellmi is a digital mental health service that offers a free, pre-moderated peer support app tailored to different age groups.
The organisation has also introduced text-based one-on-one Solution Focused Therapy. Tellmi Therapy encourages individuals to identify their existing strengths and focus on what they can achieve, rather than what is preventing them from achieving their goals. The service is anonymous, helping employees overcome fears related to confidentiality and career progression, and can be promoted to highlight the positives of seeking help.
Businesses across Leicestershire, Leicester City, and Rutland can now access free resources to help implement this mental health service for their employees and their families.
If you would like to know more about introducing Tellmi in your workplace please contact emma@tellmi.help
