MENTAL HEALTH AT WORK: The book that everyone needs to read right now

“In the last year I’ve struggled with stress, anxiety, panic attacks and sleepless nights” – a line millions of people across the UK identify with more than ever.

Yet, it was this confession in a blogpost in 2016 that kicked off tech entrepreneur James Routledge’s mission to improve mental health in the workplace forever.

In two days, the post was viewed 10,000 times and led to 500 people sending James personal messages about their own mental health problems at work.

Now, five years on, James has not only set up leading workplace mental health organisation Sanctus, but is today announcing the launch of his revolutionary new book: Mental Health at Work – available now for pre-order.

Published by Penguin Random House UK and available to buy in store and online from 30 September 2021 – coinciding with World Mental Health Day (10 October) – Mental Health at Work is a book of stories, learning and guidance on how to talk comfortably about mental health in a professional environment.

With one in five people experiencing mental health problems right now, and stress, anxiety and depression accounting for half of all working days lost, Mental Health at Work is aimed at both individuals keen to learn more about their own wellbeing, as well as business leaders looking to create better workplace practices. The book provides detailed advice on creating an open and inclusive community in professional workplaces, as well as tips on how teams can implement unique changes that not only affect real change, but are authentic and genuine too.

Over the past 18 months, our working lives have undergone immeasurable changes, and four in 10 adults have admitted their well-being has been affected since the pandemic began. In light of this social and cultural backdrop, Mental Health at Work has never been a more relevant read. Covering topics such as ‘What is Mental Health?’ through to ‘How to talk to someone about your mental health’ – the book includes a range of practical exercises and coping mechanisms designed to help both employers and employees.

James Routledge said: I’m so pleased that mental health is something that we’re all talking about right now. My hope with this book is that mental health is on the agenda in every business in the UK. We have best selling books on leadership, management, company culture, sales, marketing, but nothing on mental health – that has to change – employee mental health is a priority now for most businesses and with this book they can get some much needed inspiration.

Mental Health at Work is available for pre-order here: https://linktr.ee/james_sanctus and will be available to buy in store and online from 30 September 2021.