Individuals dealing with severe mental health issues often face significant barriers to employment. Furthermore, those who do manage to secure jobs are likely to encounter inequalities in the workplace. Being unemployed can also negatively impact mental health, as unemployment, job insecurity, and recent job loss are identified as factors contributing to suicidal thoughts and attempts.
These insights are highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO), which will observe World Mental Health Day 2024 on October 10, under the theme “It is time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace.”
In Fiji, the Ministry of Employment has expressed concerns over its limited resources and expertise to tackle mental health issues within professional settings. Employment Minister Agni Deo Singh acknowledged in an April interview that his ministry would require assistance from employers to support their employees’ mental well-being.
Mr. Singh stated, “We are not equipped honestly to see how we can assist with mental well-being.” He suggested that it is the responsibility of employers to provide workplace counseling, allowing them to better support their employees.
As an organization focusing on mental health support, Empower Pacific has implemented an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) in collaboration with various employers. This program allows employees to receive counseling after being referred by their employers for mental health issues impacting their work.
There are instances where the challenges faced by workers stem from both their professional and personal lives, exacerbating their mental health struggles. Apart from referrals, some individuals have sought assistance by visiting Empower Pacific’s offices or calling their 24/7 confidential helpline at 5626 for a variety of mental health concerns.
According to WHO, enhancing mental health at work involves collaboration among government entities, employers, worker organizations, and other stakeholders. Key actions include preventing work-related mental health issues, promoting mental health, supporting workers with mental health conditions, and fostering an environment conducive to positive change.
To protect mental health, WHO advocates for manager training on recognizing and addressing emotional distress within teams, mental health literacy training for employees to combat stigma, and individual interventions to help manage stress and reduce mental health symptoms.
Moreover, individuals living with mental health conditions have the right to participate fairly in the workforce. The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities outlines international agreements aimed at safeguarding the rights of people with disabilities, including those with psychosocial disabilities.
To support individuals with mental health conditions in the workplace, WHO recommends several interventions, such as:
– Implementing reasonable accommodations to tailor work environments to meet individual needs.
– Establishing return-to-work programs that combine workplace support with ongoing clinical care to assist individuals in transitioning back to work.
– Supporting employment initiatives that help those with severe mental health conditions secure and maintain jobs by providing continued mental health and vocational support.
Employers interested in improving the mental health and well-being of their employees can reach out to Empower Pacific for information on the EAP partnership. Workers facing mental health challenges at home or work can call 5626 to access confidential support from qualified counselors. This helpline is available thanks to support from the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade, with advertising assistance from the Rotary Club of Suva Peninsula Sunset and the Fijian Broadcasting Corporation.