Let's Talk: Supporting Mental Health in PR and Corp Comms
Presspage has been a part of the PR and corporate communications community for many years. We’ve seen firsthand the dedication and hard work professionals put into their roles - that’s why we call them our ‘superheroes’. So it's a gut punch to see recent research showing a significant rise in poor mental health among PR and public affairs professionals.
The Reality of Overwork and Stress
The latest research from PRCA and CIPR trade groups in the UK reveals some shocking stats: 33% of industry professionals report having been diagnosed with a mental health condition, up by eight percentage points in just a year. Even more concerning is that 91% of survey respondents have experienced poor mental health in the past 12 months - a figure that hasn’t changed in almost 5 years. These aren't just numbers; they represent real people overwhelmed by massive workloads and murky expectations.
Too much work, cited by 58% of respondents, is a major stressor. Additionally, 51% pointed to unclear expectations from employers as a significant source of anxiety. This chaotic work environment, coupled with what we’d conservatively label a ‘pretty messed-up’ political and economic landscape, is making it nearly impossible for PR pros to keep up.
It's worth noting that while these numbers are from the UK, conversations with our clients and wider network make it clear everyone is feeling the pressure.
Learning from Experience
As Alastair McCapra, CEO of CIPR, points out, poor employee retention, burnout, and downsizing are only making the problem worse. Public sector PR teams have been shrinking year after year, leaving individuals isolated and bearing enormous responsibility. In agencies, despite recent growth, head counts are contracting due to relentless client pressure, further straining the remaining staff.
Having worked with numerous PR and communications teams, we’ve seen how these pressures can build up. We’ve heard stories of colleagues struggling to meet demands with fewer resources, and the toll it takes is clear.
Steps Towards Real Change
Despite some progress, with 79% of workplaces now having policies aimed at improving mental well-being, only 55% of people feel these measures are taken seriously. This gap between policy and practice suggests there’s a lot to be done.
Talking about mental health is crucial, but beyond conversations, we need actionable steps. Many professionals avoid taking time off for mental health reasons, fearing negative perceptions or simply feeling overwhelmed by their workload. It’s time to change that narrative. But how?
Embracing Hybrid Working for Better Wellbeing
The pandemic has taught us a lot about work-life balance. Pre-pandemic, 70% of PR professionals worked full-time in an office; now, only 9% do. Those working from home report better balance and improved mental health. However, the survey also indicates that those who continue to work full-time in an office have higher well-being scores. So…now what?
A hybrid working approach, supported by 64% of respondents, seems to be the way forward. It combines the best of both worlds, offering flexibility and promoting better mental health.
Moving Forward Together
Employers must take these findings seriously and make meaningful changes to support their employees' mental health.
At Presspage, we believe that fostering a supportive and flexible work environment is not just a responsibility but a necessity. Allowing staff to disconnect from work emails outside of office hours and promoting regular breaks throughout the day are simple yet effective steps.
We’ve seen that when employees feel supported, they thrive. By prioritizing mental well-being, we can help PR and public affairs professionals manage their mental health effectively. As Alastair McCapra rightly says, "We should not accept that stress has a right to be part and parcel of the culture of PR”.
We should not accept that stress has a right to be part and parcel of the culture of PR.
A Personal Commitment
The mental health crisis among PR and public affairs professionals is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention. Let’s bridge the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that our mental health initiatives are genuinely effective and supported. By adopting hybrid working models and prioritizing mental well-being, we can create a healthier, more sustainable work environment for everyone in the industry.
So, what are we waiting for? Let's get serious about mental health in PR and corporate communications – our superheroes deserve nothing less.
