At EHS International, we are committed to fostering mentally healthy workplaces where employees feel safe, supported, and empowered to seek help when needed. Yet, for many, the stigma surrounding mental health remains a barrier, preventing open conversations and access to the right support. This post is focused on: Breaking the Stigma: The Role of Mental Health First Aid in the Workplace.
A recent feature in Health & Safety Review explores how Mental Health First Aid training can play a vital role in breaking this stigma. The article highlights the challenges employees and organisations face in addressing mental health concerns and offers practical solutions to create a more inclusive, psychologically safe environment.
Our own Louise Dennison O’Shaughnessy, Director of Mental Health & Wellbeing at EHS International, shares insights into how organisations can support their employees through structured training, leadership commitment, and workplace culture shifts.
Why Does This Matter?
📌 1 in 4 employees in Ireland will experience a mental health issue in their lifetime
📌 Mental health challenges impact productivity, absenteeism, and retention
📌 Many employees still hesitate to speak up due to stigma and fear of repercussions
📌 Managers often feel unprepared to support their teams effectively
How Can Mental Health First Aid Help?
✅ Breaks down stigma – Normalising conversations around mental health in the workplace
✅ Equips managers and employees with the tools to recognise, respond, and refer
✅ Encourages disclosure in a safe environment – People are more likely to seek help when they feel supported
✅ Creates a culture of wellbeing – Shifting the focus from crisis response to proactive support
However, for these initiatives to be truly effective, they must be integrated into workplace culture. As Louise highlights, organisations that embrace wellbeing as a core value – rather than a box-ticking exercise – see tangible benefits, including higher engagement, reduced stress, and improved overall performance.
The Role of Leadership in Mental Health Support
For mental health initiatives to be successful, senior leadership buy-in is crucial. Employers must not only provide training but also ensure managers have the time and resources to offer meaningful support. By including mental health awareness in KPIs and job roles, businesses can transition from viewing mental health as a “nice-to-have” to a fundamental part of workplace safety and wellbeing.
Additionally, as workplaces continue to evolve with hybrid and remote working, ensuring employees feel connected and supported is more important than ever. Simple initiatives, such as virtual coffee check-ins or regular mental health discussions, can make a significant difference in reducing isolation and encouraging open conversations.
Is your organisation ready to take action? Now is the time to invest in Mental Health First Aid training and create a workplace where employees feel valued, heard, and supported.
Read the full article on the Health & Safety Review website, or in this months Magazine.
Let’s work together to make mental health a priority!
Thank you for reading about: Breaking the Stigma: The Role of Mental Health First Aid in the Workplace
About the Author: Louise Dennison O’Shaughnessy
Louise Dennison O’Shaughnessy is the Director of Mental Health & Wellness at EHS International, specialising in workplace mental health training and resilience-building. With over a decade of experience, Louise is a certified Mental Health Instructor, First Aid Trainer, and registered EMT. She is passionate about fostering supportive work environments, reducing absenteeism, and improving employee well-being through innovative training programmes.
Book Mental Health First Aid Training Here
Resources for those in need of Mental Health Support.
At EHS International, we believe that having access to the right support at the right time can make all the difference. That’s why we’ve carefully curated a comprehensive list of trusted organisations dedicated to crisis intervention, counselling, and ongoing mental health services.
Moreover, these resources are designed to empower individuals, families, and workplaces with the tools and guidance they need to navigate mental health challenges effectively. Whether you’re seeking immediate assistance, exploring long-term support, or looking for ways to help someone in need, these organisations are ready to step in.
EHS International, are committed to fostering a community of care and resilience, and we aim to ensure that no one has to face mental health challenges alone.
Visit the EHS International Mental Health Hub
Crisis and Mental Health Support Services If you or someone you care about is in crisis and requires immediate support, please contact the Samaritans or one of the services listed below. The Samaritans provide confidential, non-judgmental assistance 24/7. Call 116 123 in the Republic of Ireland or 08457 90 90 90 in Northern Ireland, email them, or visit their website at www.samaritans.ie to find the nearest branch.
