Less than a fifth of companies are proactively managing stress and mental health issues, according to a new survey.

The survey by the trade body for the group risk insurance sector, GRiD, found only 18% of employers are proactively helping staff manage stress and mental health.

It also found only 15% take measures to improve financial wellbeing and only 18% support staff with caring responsibilities.

The details of the survey were released in the run up to “Blue Monday” (21 January), which some have claimed is the most depressing day of the year, although others have dismissed the notion as nothing more than a marketing stunt.

“Employees can be greatly affected by areas of their lives outside of work,” said GRiD spokesperson, Katharine Moxham.

“The companies that are best at supporting the mental health of their workforce are the ones that take this into consideration and look at offering more fully rounded support. And, of course, this has a very positive effect on loyalty, engagement and productivity.”

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