Mental health at work: need for action for managers
In our article, learn how to change the world of work through digitization and demographic change affects mental health. Experts emphasize the importance of a professional risk assessment and preventive measures at the workplace. Learn more about the increasing mental illnesses and the need for support for employees to prevent illness and early retirement.

Mental health at work: need for action for managers
Berlin, 10.10.2024 - The world of work is on the brink! While digitization and artificial intelligence continuously drive forward, the mental well -being of many employees falls by the wayside. Dr. Johannes Albert Gehle, co-chair of the working group "Psychiatry, Psychosomatics, Psychotherapy" of the Federal Medical Association, makes it clear: "The world of work must be stable for mutation for the mental needs of employees!"
An alarming picture is emerging: since 2010 the number of mental illnesses has increased by alarming 56 percent! The statistics from the absenteeism report 2023 of the AOK scientific institute reveals that psychological problems in 2022 represents the third most common cause of sick leave-with a share of 10.3 percent. And the consequences are serious: On average, those affected are unable to work for almost 30 days - more than twice as long as with other diseases!
managers under pressure
dr. Gerald Quitterer, another strong man of the Federal Medical Association, sums it up: "The managers are responsible!" It is high time that companies accept the challenge and take preventive measures seriously. The support for employees not only has to be in the sense of ethics, but also brings tangible financial advantages: Fewer sick days mean fewer costs for health and more productivity!
- mental illness = third most common cause of illness!
- an average of 29.6 days downtime - crisis of the world of work!
- early retirement due to psychological problems affects almost 40% of cases!
- good prevention protects the financial resources of companies!
The Action Alliance Mental Health, which includes around 160 partners, shows that a joint approach is needed. Together with those affected and experts, it fights to create the rooms that are needed for a healthy work environment. The week of mental health, which focuses on the world day of mental health on October 10th, calls on everyone for attention: developments must be tackled immediately.
A clear message to all managers: "Take care of the soul of your employees!". The pressure to help employees through effective measures will not be less! The time to act is now!