The theme for this year’s World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10, is “It’s time to Prioritise Mental Health in the Workplace.” This theme was selected through a global vote involving members and supporters of the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) and serves as a widespread call to action.
While many individuals emphasize the importance of physical health through proper nutrition and exercise, mental health often goes overlooked. The WFMH points out that working adults spend the majority of their waking hours engaged in work-related activities. WFMH President Tsuyoshi Akiyama expressed that while work can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose, for too many, it falls short, negatively impacting mental well-being and leading to distress and mental health conditions.
He highlighted that mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety are prevalent in workplaces globally, leading to decreased productivity and higher absenteeism. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that untreated mental health issues result in economic losses of approximately $1 trillion annually.
Non-governmental organization Empower Pacific is dedicated to offering counseling and social support services, assisting both employed and unemployed individuals, including children facing mental health challenges. Employed individuals often seek counseling through referrals from their employers, addressing issues that affect their personal lives and ultimately their mental health. Problems stemming from both work and home can compound stress and hinder coping abilities.
Empower Pacific also welcomes individuals who reach out directly for help via their offices or the 24/7 toll-free counseling helpline 5626. The WHO states that decent work conditions are beneficial for mental health, while poor working environments—characterized by discrimination, excessive workloads, and job insecurity—pose significant risks.
In 2019, it was estimated that 15% of working-age adults had a mental disorder, with WHO reporting global losses of 12 billion workdays annually due to depression and anxiety, costing around $1 trillion in lost productivity. WHO emphasizes that all workers have the right to a safe and healthy working environment, which supports good mental health through various benefits, including a stable livelihood and the opportunity for positive social connections.
However, several workplace risks, such as skill under-utilization, excessive demands, unsafe conditions, and lack of supportive management, can threaten mental health. Akiyama pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the urgent need to address these mental health issues in the workplace.
Today, progressive leaders recognize their responsibility to care for their workforce’s mental health, understanding that supporting mental wellness benefits individuals and enhances organizational performance.
World Mental Health Day 2024 aims to focus on diverse aspects of mental health in the workplace, including stress management and promoting social inclusion. The overarching goal is to advocate for mental health prioritization and establish best practices that foster productive and thriving work cultures.
Akiyama encourages global collaboration with all stakeholders, including businesses, to make a meaningful impact. He urged everyone to prioritize mental health in the workplace for a better future. Those experiencing mental health challenges are invited to contact the 24/7 toll-free counseling helpline at 5626 for support from a qualified counselor. Empower Pacific’s helpline is supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade, with advertising support from local organizations.