Usdaw takes both the physical and mental wellbeing of its members very seriously.

Usdaw wants to support its members with mental health issues and has recently launched new resources to support reps who want to campaign in their workplace around the issue of mental health. Mental health problems are on the rise and lots of our reps and officials are supporting members with anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions.

The new campaign materials have the theme It's Good To Talk and are designed to help reps open up conversations with colleagues and reduce the stigma of talking about mental health.

For too long mental health has been a taboo subject and individuals were often, and unfairly, blamed for their condition. The shame and secrecy around mental health can have devastating consequences. Usdaw wants to change that while accepting that it is a complex and sensitive area.

 
Members with mental health problems may well have rights to additional support at work under the Equality Act – but these rights are often poorly understood by managers leading to members not getting the support they need.

One in four of us will have a mental health problem at some point in our lives and that makes anxiety and depression an important issue for all unions.

If you're struggling with your mental health, your rep will be able to provide advice and support. We also have a wealth of materials available to help you get the support you need below.