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In recruitment, we often focus on skills, qualifications, and experience — but rarely do we pause to consider something equally vital: mental health.
As we approach World Mental Health Day (October 10), it’s time for both employers and recruiters to look beyond the CV and into the human experience behind every hire.

Why Mental Health in Recruitment Matters
Recruitment is more than a transaction — it’s a transition. Candidates are stepping into new environments, facing uncertainty, and adapting to change. When mental wellbeing isn’t considered, the process can easily become stressful, discouraging, or even damaging.
Employers who prioritise mental health in their hiring processes see tangible returns:
- Higher retention: Employees who feel valued and supported are 3x more likely to stay longer.
- Stronger engagement: Teams built on trust and empathy outperform those that ignore wellbeing.
- Better employer branding: A reputation for caring attracts high-quality talent organically.
Recruitment Practices That Protect Wellbeing
Here’s how employers and recruiters can take proactive steps:
- Communicate clearly.
Uncertainty breeds anxiety. Offer transparent timelines and feedback to help candidates feel respected. - Promote psychological safety.
Foster interview environments that are conversational, not interrogative. This reduces stress and helps candidates show their best selves. - Normalize mental health discussions.
Integrate mental health support into onboarding and staff training. Encourage open conversations from day one. - Train hiring teams.
Equip HR professionals and recruiters to recognise early signs of burnout or distress and respond compassionately.
The ROI of Compassion
Supporting mental wellbeing isn’t just ethical — it’s strategic. Businesses that invest in employee mental health report:
- 23% reduction in turnover
- 32% higher productivity
- Significant drops in absenteeism
In short, happy and mentally healthy employees make happy and successful organisations.
Final Thought
Behind every successful hire is a person — with dreams, stressors, and goals. Recruitment done right doesn’t just fill roles; it builds workplaces where people can thrive.
Let’s use this
World Mental Health Day as a reminder:
✅ Choose empathy.
✅ Choose care.
✅ Choose wellbeing.
Call to Action:
Read the full SR Insider blog on our website and
share your workplace wellbeing practices in the comments below!
#MentalHealth #Recruitment #EmployeeWellbeing #WorldMentalHealthDay #SuitsRecruitment
By: Joy Khaylin









