Managing Stress and Mental Health in the Workplace Policy 2026-2029

Definitions

Mental Health – Mental health is a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realise their abilities, learn and work well, and contribute to their community. It has intrinsic and instrumental value and is a basic human right. (World Health Organisation, 2025)

Stress is the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressure or other types of demand placed on them (Health & Safety Executive). This makes an important distinction between pressure, which can be a positive if managed correctly, whilst stress which can be detrimental to health. These demands may arise from home or work, or both and can lead to both physical and psychological problems. Stress is now recognised nationally as a major cause of employee ill health and sickness absence and is often linked to musculoskeletal disorders.