A record 2.6 million people are off work due to long-term sickness, with mental health conditions the biggest single contributor. The problem is particularly acute among younger people, who are disproportionately likely to cite poor mental health as their reason for not working. Other surveys suggest that poor mental health and burnout are among the top reasons for young people to quit their job. But should young people develop more resilience and “soldier on”, as older generations may have done, or is being more open about mental health a good thing? And how well are employers adapting to the expectations of younger workers when it comes to mental health and wellbeing?

Contributors:
Tim Gibbs, Head of Public Service Analysis Team, Office for National Statistics
Emma Codd, Global Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, Deloitte
Gabrielle Judge, Influencer and CEO, Anti Work Girlboss
Joel Gujral, CEO and Founder, MYNDUP
Dr Lucy Foulkes, Research Fellow in the Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford
Mel Stride, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions
Alison McGovern, Shadow Minister for Work and Pensions
With thanks to City, University of London

Presenter: James Kirkup
Producer: Dan Hardoon
Editor: Clare Fordham