Job worries disturb sleep for 1 in 3 Suffolk workers, study finds

Why it matters: Sleep is crucial for mental health and productivity. This study shows how work issues directly impact Ipswich workers' lives outside office hours.

The big picture: Suffolk Mind surveyed 742 workers and found that sleep was the least-met emotional need among workers, scoring -1.21 on a scale from -3 to 3. Community was the second least-met need, scoring 0.64.

These findings highlight clear areas where employers can take action to support their staff.

What they're saying: Jon Neal, CEO of Suffolk Mind, said: "We spend a significant proportion of our lives at work – so it is no surprise it can have an effect on the quality of our sleep."

He added, "Introducing mental health training, and the lessons it teaches, can make a real difference to both the employee and the employer."

The solution: According to Jon, “The workplace is an environment in which we can meet many of our emotional needs," and “it’s important that line managers and workplaces are equipped to support people in meeting their needs, avoiding stress and, therefore, mental ill health."

Suffolk Mind offers practical steps for businesses:

• Mental health training courses for staff, from short sessions to multi-day programmes.

• Tools to help managers support employees' emotional needs.

• Guidance on creating a supportive workplace environment.

The bottom line: World Mental Health Day marks an opportunity for local businesses to address sleep issues and invest in employee wellbeing, potentially boosting staff happiness and productivity.