Insurer, Aviva, has released research showing that, whilst access to mental health services is improving, employees are reluctant to discuss mental health with their employer.
The research, which surveyed 2,000 UK adults, showed that 74% of respondents would talk to someone if they were struggling with their mental health.
However, of these, 5% said they would speak to their employer about the topic, with 33% of those asked saying they never discuss mental health at work.
Though employees did, by and large, not wish to discuss their mental health in the workplace, 36% had taken time off work due to mental health but 18% did not disclose the true reason for their absence.
When discussing mental health with an employer, 64% said the conversation was helpful.
Dr Larissa Stevenson, associate medical director, Aviva UK Health, said: "While many employees may feel reluctant to talk openly about their mental health at work, it's clear they are still actively seeking support.
"Employer‑provided wellbeing benefits are playing a vital role in bridging that gap, offering accessible and confidential routes to help."
Aviva's own data showed that it booked 23,000 mental health consultations via Aviva DigiCare+ in 2025, with its mental health toolkit being accessed 12,887 times across the year.
In 2025, over 12,600 people accessed support from Aviva's mental health pathway, including 795 children and young people.
Stevenson said: "Services such as EAPs, digital consultations and preventative wellbeing tools are helping employees access support earlier, often before issues escalate. This not only helps improve outcomes for individuals but also helps employers build healthier and more resilient workforces.
"By taking a more holistic approach to wellbeing, employers can ensure support is available in ways that reflect how people actually seek help even when they may not feel ready to speak up directly."
