People frequently discuss key aspects of life such as success, money, family, friends, and career, yet often overlook a vital component: health. In prioritising other areas, we tend to neglect our overall well-being. Mental health, in particular, is a fundamental human right, irrespective of an individual’s background or circumstances. It encompasses the right to protection from mental health risks, access to quality mental health care, and the freedom to live with dignity, autonomy, and inclusion within society.
As the world faces unprecedented challenges -- including geopolitical tensions, extreme weather events, disease outbreaks, and economic uncertainties -- the mental health of employees has emerged as a significant concern. This situation highlights the urgent need for organisations to prioritise the mental well-being of their workforce.
World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10th, aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and promote access to care. This year’s theme, “Mental Health at Work,” underscores the importance of creating supportive workplace environments that prioritise employee well-being, urging organisations to take proactive measures to safeguard mental health. First celebrated in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health, this day has become a vital initiative advocating for mental health education worldwide.
In today’s world, offering adequate support to employees is essential, and this obligation falls on employers. Implementing straightforward yet impactful strategies—such as designating mental health first aiders, establishing well-being champions, and modifying shift patterns to foster work-life balance—can significantly enhance employee mental health.
However, mental health challenges in the workplace remain substantial. Factors like global crises and escalating job demands contribute to rising stress and anxiety levels. According to the WHO, 15% of working-age adults experience a mental disorder at any given time.
Data from International SOS identifies the top mental health assistance requests over the past two years as anxiety, depression, panic disorder, ADHD, and acute stress, with burnout affecting one in four employees globally. The International SOS Risk Outlook 2024 report emphasises that burnout is a major organisational threat.
The economic impact of mental health issues is considerable. The WHO estimates that depression and anxiety result in the loss of 12 billion working days annually, leading to a global productivity loss of $1 trillion. These figures underscore the urgent need for employers to prioritise mental well-being through supportive wellness policies.
International SOS advises organisations to foster a supportive work culture by demonstrating strong leadership commitment and integrating mental health initiatives into their policies. They should ensure that employees have easy access to mental health resources, promote work-life balance through flexible arrangements, and provide training to raise awareness and support colleagues. Continuous monitoring of employee mental health through surveys and assessments is also essential.
On World Mental Health Day, let’s come together to highlight the importance of mental health. Open conversations about mental well-being help individuals cope with life’s challenges. Just as organisations focus on physical safety, mental health should also be viewed as essential to overall health. Building mental resilience in the workforce is vital for creating a supportive and productive environment.
Dr. Krishna Kumar Vepakomma
Professor & Principal (Retd.)
Rajeev Nagar, Hyderabad.