NICE calls for flexible working to reduce stress

The National Institute for Health and Clinical excellence warned £28.3 billion a year was being lost through absences due to work-related mental illness.

Publishing the watchdog's guidance on the issue, Professor Mike Kelly said that the guidance "explains how employers can make simple changes that will improve the management of mental health in the workplace, including prevention and early identification of problems."

NHS union UNISON general secretary Dave Prentis said: "Employers could save millions and deliver a better service by digging into the underlying causes of stress and depression in their workplaces."

But Mr Prentis also called for employers to look at job insecurity and workplace bullying.

"While the recession inevitably takes a toll on public health, employers are burying their heads in the sand and failing to tackle workplace bullying, impossible workloads, long hours and insecurity, all of which can lead to anxiety and stress," he added.