As we mark Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, this year’s theme – “community” – is a timely reminder that connection is not a “nice to have” in the workplace. It’s essential.
In an era of hybrid working, increasing workloads and fragmented teams, loneliness is on the rise, even in large organisations. Left unaddressed, it can quietly undermine wellbeing, reduce productivity, and ultimately lead to increased absence levels.
When employees feel isolated, their risk of mental health challenges like anxiety, stress and burnout increases. Our data at GoodShape shows that mental health remains one of the leading causes of long-term absence, with many of these cases avoidable through earlier intervention and stronger support networks.
By tracking absence trends and supporting timely, informed responses, we help organisations identify where disconnection may be taking hold before it leads to extended absence.
Fostering a sense of community is one of the most effective ways to protect mental health and reduce absence. We don't just mean after-work drinks or team socials – it’s about creating belonging, connection and shared purpose. Below are some practical ways employers can support this:
Encourage meaningful connection: Create space for team members to talk beyond task-based check-ins. Consistently and accurately tracking absence data can help spot where teams may be struggling with burnout, and empower managers to identify those in need of assistance.
Invest in peer support: Initiatives like buddy systems or mentoring schemes can help reduce isolation and build trust.
Train line managers: Equip managers to spot signs of withdrawal and initiate supportive conversations. Access to relevant data helps guide early, informed intervention.
Celebrate diversity: Support employee networks and inclusive initiatives to ensure every voice is heard and valued.
Use data to inform action: Trends in absence or employee sentiment can indicate where connection is breaking down, and where support is most needed.
Employees who feel connected at work are more likely to stay, perform and thrive. Conversely, those who feel isolated are at greater risk of mental health challenges and long-term absence, affecting both their wellbeing and your productivity levels.
This Mental Health Awareness Week, let’s recognise that community at work isn’t just a cultural ideal – it’s a business imperative. GoodShape supports employers with the insight and tools to strengthen connection, protect wellbeing and reduce absence – making workplaces healthier and more resilient.
Book a demo today to learn more about how GoodShape can help support your employees' mental health and reduce the impact of absence on your business.