As we mark World Mental Health Day (October 10th) it’s been revealed that preventative mental health support is now considered the most beneficial form of employee wellbeing provision, according to new research.
The findings by GRiD, the industry body for the group risk sector, reveal that 88% of UK employers offer some kind of preventative wellbeing support, aimed at identifying and addressing issues before they escalate. Among these, mental health initiatives were rated as the most helpful, ahead of physical, financial, and social wellbeing measures.
For studios and publishers in the games industry, where creative pressure and crunch culture have long been challenges, the research reinforces the growing case for early, proactive mental health strategies.
According to GRiD, 43% of organisations offering preventative support for mental health said it was the most effective type of intervention for staff. This typically includes access to Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), counselling, and stress management initiatives — all of which have become increasingly common within UK games businesses in recent years, as studios look to reduce burnout and build long-term resilience.
In comparison, 39% of employers cited physical health initiatives — such as fitness and lifestyle programmes — as the most valuable preventative support, while 27% highlighted financial and social wellbeing initiatives, including budgeting help and team-building activities.
However, the report also exposes a clear divide between large organisations and smaller businesses. While 97% of large corporates (250+ employees) offer preventative support, this figure drops to just 76% among micro-employers — a category that includes many independent game studios. Similarly, 71% of large firms provide preventative support specifically for mental health, compared to only 38% of smaller employers.
The research also found that almost half (48%) of employees feel a lack of preventative health and wellbeing support from the government is affecting them and their colleagues — suggesting workplaces are playing a growing role in bridging that gap.
GRiD says prevention has become the “direction of travel” for both government and employers alike, as the UK grapples with long-term sickness and rising rates of stress-related absence.
Preventative measures not only protect employee wellbeing but also enhance studio performance, retention, and culture — making them one of the most valuable investments a business can make.
