EMPLOYERS are being urged to talk to their staff about mental health after new research suggested most workers want the issue to be prioritised.

A survey of more than 1,000 workers by the conciliation service Acas found that nine in 10 believed it was important for employers to take mental health at work seriously.

Acas said not everyone showed obvious signs of poor mental health but suggested managers checked on staff who looked tired, anxious or withdrawn, arrived late or showed changes in their behaviour.

Julie Dennis of Acas said: “Bosses should treat poor mental health at work in the same way as physical illnesses and regularly ask their staff how they are doing.

“Some people with poor mental health can also be considered disabled under the Equality Act, which means an employer must make reasonable adjustments at work.

“Mental health includes emotional, psychological and social wellbeing. It affects how someone thinks, feels and behaves.

“Having conversations with staff in a sympathetic way can be a good first step.”