Mental Health Awareness for Managers in Small Businesses
Posted on November 5, 2025
This information sheet is designed to help managers in small businesses recognise, prevent, and respond to mental health issues in the workplace. Early identification and supportive actions can reduce absenteeism, improve morale, and create a healthier work culture.
Recognising Mental Health Issues
Mental health problems can affect anyone, regardless of role or seniority. Managers play a crucial role in spotting early signs and offering support.
Common indicators include:
- Changes in behaviour, mood, or communication style
- Decreased productivity or concentration
- Increased absenteeism or lateness
- Withdrawal from colleagues or social activities
- Physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, or tension
Recognising Burnout
Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. It often occurs when employees feel overworked and undervalued.
Key symptoms of burnout include:
- Chronic fatigue and loss of motivation
- Increased cynicism or detachment from work
- Reduced performance and creativity
- Irritability and conflict with colleagues
- Difficulty relaxing, even outside of work
Actions to Prevent Mental Health Issues
Small business leaders can take practical steps to create a healthy, supportive environment that reduces stress and burnout.
- Encourage open conversations about wellbeing and mental health.
- Regularly review workloads to ensure they are realistic and manageable.
- Offer flexibility where possible (remote work, adjusted hours).
- Provide regular breaks and encourage healthy work–life balance.
- Recognise and celebrate achievements to boost morale.
- Provide mental health awareness training for all managers.
- Promote wellbeing as part of onbaording and employee experience, for example within the performance management culture.
Practical Steps When Mental Health Issues Are Identified
When an employee discloses or shows signs of poor mental health, managers should:
- Listen without judgement and maintain confidentiality.
- Ask what support the employee needs and document it appropriately.
- Adjust workloads or deadlines temporarily where possible.
- Offer flexible working arrangements to allow recovery time.
- Refer the employee to external support services or occupational health if available.
- Maintain regular supportive contact and review progress.
UK-Based Support Organisations for Small Businesses
These trusted organisations can support small businesses and employees dealing with mental health issues:
Mind: https://www.mind.org.uk
Provides resources, guides, and training on workplace mental health.
Mental Health at Work (Mind initiative): https://www.mentalhealthatwork.org.uk
Free resources tailored for SMEs.
ACAS: https://www.acas.org.uk
Offers advice on managing mental health and resolving workplace issues.
CIPD: https://www.cipd.org
Guidance for HR and managers on wellbeing strategy.
Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org
24/7 confidential listening service for anyone in distress.
Want further help?
Contact us today to book a free 30 minute consultation or get support with next steps:
+44 (0) 2382 518 004
info@smehrconsultancy.com
www.smehrconsultancy.com
