Learning and development pros say mental health is a top training priority

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Joanne Swann
person writing on white paper

Learning and development professionals believe mental health and wellbeing is the most important eLearning topic for their organisation over the next 12 months, according to the latest survey by DeltaNet International.

This is closely followed by stress management training for employees, as nearly nine in 10 (88%) employers said they are worried about how the cost-of-living crisis is affecting employees.

Likely due to the current economic state, these areas were ranked as more important than diversity and inclusion, cybersecurity, health and safety, and sustainability training.

Despite this, half of those surveyed (50%) revealed that their learning and development budgets would not change despite the current economic climate putting increased pressure on businesses to support employees further. One in five (21%) stated that a reduction in their budget would be one of the biggest challenges affecting learning and development in the workplace.

Regarding specific training to help employees navigate mental health and the cost of living, almost two-thirds (65%) said this isn’t something they have yet given. But half (50%) are considering implementing practical training such as financial planning in the future.

Worryingly, the results reveal an underinvestment in training line managers. Just 27% of learning and development professionals said they plan to provide line managers with training linked to the rising cost of living, such as helping managers to spot the signs of those in their teams who may be struggling.

Chris Chappell, Head of Content at DeltaNet International, comments on the situation:

Given the current economic situation we find ourselves in, it’s unsurprising that mental health support and stress management are topping the agenda for learning and development priorities.

Businesses must support colleagues as best as possible to maintain a contented and productive workforce, but many still have not acted. Whilst good rates of pay and benefits schemes are key to helping people through the cost-of-living crisis, there is much more we can do to support employees, and training plays a key role in this.

 Chris Chappell, Head of Content at DeltaNet International

Employee engagement with learning and development also remains a big challenge. 27% of those surveyed revealed this is currently their primary obstacle. Most HR and training professionals are trying to overcome this by asking employees for written feedback on training, with 77% conducting post-training evaluation – only 12% request verbal feedback.

Joanne Swann, Content Manager, WorkWellPro
Editor at Workplace Wellbeing Professional | Website |  + posts

Joanne is the editor for Workplace Wellbeing Professional and has a keen interest in promoting the safety and wellbeing of the global workforce. After earning a bachelor's degree in English literature and media studies, she taught English in China and Vietnam for two years. Before joining Work Well Pro, Joanne worked as a marketing coordinator for luxury property, where her responsibilities included blog writing, photography, and video creation.

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