Meta-synthesis of qualitative research on the barriers and facilitators to implementing workplace mental health interventions

Purpose

There has been a rapid increase in the number of mental health interventions implemented in the workplace. The efficacy of these interventions has been mixed. The factors influencing implementation may offer insights to why some interventions fail to be effective.

Method

We conducted a meta-synthesis of qualitative research on the barriers and facilitators to implementing workplace mental health interventions. We evaluated the quality of evidence using CASP and CERQual and synthesized our data using thematic analysis.

Results

33 studies were included in the review. A broad range of interventions were reflected in the studies, a majority of which were implemented at the individual level and in health care settings. Facilitators included positive disclosure by line managers, completion of intervention in work time, scheduling flexibility and trainer credibility. Barriers included managers not prioritising interventions, lack of suitable training of facilitators, competing priorities, workload issues and staff shortages. No findings were judged to be very well supported (i.e., high confidence).

Conclusion

Evidence surrounding the implementation of mental health interventions in the workplace is weak, and studies are limited to high income countries, with a bias towards healthcare and public sector settings. We call for a taxonomy of implementation issues specifically for workplace mental health to advance knowledge and practice.