Healix & Mind Right host mental health event

A fresh look at employee mental health

Keira from Healix Health kicked off the event by sharing her journey in mental health care. She explained how employee mental health support has changed over the years. In the past, people needed a GP or specialist referral to get help. Now, many services use a self-referral system, which means employees can access care more quickly. Keira talked about new digital tools and self-management options that empower people to take charge of their own well-being. While private healthcare is fast and efficient, she also noted that it sometimes struggles with very complex or long-term mental health issues, where the NHS plays a vital role.

Challenges and changes in the NHS

Experts at the event also discussed the current state of NHS mental health care. They highlighted that the COVID-19 pandemic and an increasing willingness to talk about mental health have led to a surge in demand. Many shared that while GPs are the first point of contact, long waiting times and staff shortages often make it hard for patients to receive the help they need quickly. Although the NHS does a great job in many areas, it’s clear that more resources and better integration between mental and physical health services are needed. Digital tools, like telehealth, are beginning to help bridge these gaps, but further investment is essential to keep up with demand.

Early intervention makes a big difference

Pete from Mind Right then highlighted the importance of early intervention. He explained employee assistance programmes (EAPs) with Mind Right’s approach. Instead of a one-size-fits-all model, Mind Right uses highly skilled clinicians to provide tailored care that focuses on helping people function better in their daily lives. Pete explained that while EAPs are useful, they often cover a broad range of issues without the deep expertise needed for more serious mental health problems. His team is looking into new digital tools that can help identify mental health issues earlier, making treatment even more effective.

Connecting mental health and performance

Finally, Fred from CorPerformance introduced a fresh idea by linking mental health with overall performance. He shared his “body up” model, which looks at mental health through the lens of mood and well-being. Fred believes that measuring mood can offer important clues about a person’s overall health. By using simple methods like mood scoring and group engagement strategies, companies can not only spot problems early but also create a more supportive work environment. His approach aims to break down the stigma around mental health, making it easier for everyone to access the help they need.

Looking to the future

The event painted a hopeful picture for the future of mental health care. Experts agreed that combining the strengths of both the private sector and the NHS is key. Faster, more integrated care that uses digital tools can help reduce long waiting times and provide better support for those in need. As companies continue to care for their employees’ well-being, these fresh ideas and collaborative approaches will be essential in shaping a better future for mental health.

In summary, the discussions at the event reminded us that while challenges remain, there are many innovative ideas on the horizon. With continued collaboration and a focus on early intervention, we can build a system that truly supports mental health and helps everyone thrive at work.

Discover the mental health assistance Healix has on offer across our range of healthcare products by visiting Flex Healthcare Trust, Fix Multi-Employer Trust, and ConneX.