Breaking the Silence: Prioritizing Mental Health in Our Workplaces
By Anjana S Nair, Pondicherry Central University
This October 10, we celebrate World Mental Health Day, focusing on the theme, “It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace.” Acknowledging mental well-being is essential, and seeking help for mental health issues is an act of courage, just as visiting a doctor for a physical ailment.
During my internship in the psychiatry ward at PIMS, I observed that many individuals first sought guidance from priests and temples before approaching hospitals, often worsening their conditions. It's crucial for society to recognize that mental health issues arise from genetic, environmental, and psychosocial factors (World Health Organization, 2021).
The Impact of Workplace Stress
Consider the story of a woman who graduated in fashion technology but ended up working in a tailoring center, leading to stress and depression. This highlights how education, employment, and lifestyle choices are closely tied to mental health.
After years of education, people often pursue jobs to secure their future and provide for their families. However, the reality of workplace demands can hinder their aspirations. How can a person work productively without happiness? Finding joy and cultivating a positive environment is essential. When we approach tasks with happiness, the results often exceed those produced under stress.
To foster a culture of mental health awareness, casual conversations about mental health should be normalized in the workplace. Employers must arrange health talks and awareness sessions, encouraging open dialogues that help destigmatize mental health issues.
Creating an atmosphere where employees can share their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment is crucial.
After years of education, many find their dreams unmet once they secure a job. While a job provides a salary, it often comes with demands that hinder happiness. Taking breaks and allowing time for relaxation is essential for maintaining mental health.
In India, the maximum working hours for an adult employee is nine per day, as mandated by the Factories Act of 1948. However, many employees work over ten hours, which can negatively affect their mental health and job performance (Gallup, 2021). The lack of support in the workplace contributes to stress and poor relationships with colleagues, ultimately affecting productivity.
Creating a safe and happy workplace environment is essential. Employees should feel comfortable and supported. Each workplace should have designated personnel, such as a social worker or counselor, who can listen to employees’ concerns.
For example, one patient shared that his employer denied him leave to attend a friend’s wedding, leading to unnecessary stress.
A Beacon of Hope: Deepika Padukone’s Journey
Deepika Padukone, one of India’s most celebrated actresses, has been vocal about her battle with depression, emphasizing that mental health issues can affect anyone. Her openness has sparked important conversations around mental health in India, particularly regarding the stigma often associated with seeking help. Her foundation, The Live Love Laugh Foundation, focuses on mental health awareness and education.
Strategies for Overcoming Mental Health Challenges
- Encourage Open Conversations: Create an environment where employees can freely discuss their mental health.
- Promote Relaxation: Allow time for breaks and relaxation.
- Offer Activities: Engage employees in mindfulness sessions or team-building exercises.
- Access to Resources: Provide information about available mental health resources.
- Supportive Policies: Implement policies that prioritize mental health, such as flexible working hours.
Enhancing mental well-being also involves talking to friends, reading, listening to music, and participating in enjoyable activities. These practices can alleviate stress and improve overall mental health.
Conclusion
Prioritizing mental health in the workplace is vital for enhancing productivity and job satisfaction. Organizations must take actionable steps to create supportive environments, recognizing that mental health is as crucial as physical health. According to the World Health Organization (2021), 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health issue at some point in their lives, highlighting the urgency of addressing this topic.
Call to Action: Let us break the silence around mental health and advocate for a workplace culture that prioritizes mental well-being. Encourage your workplace to implement supportive measures and foster an environment where everyone feels valued and understood. As we approach World Mental Health Day, let’s reflect on the words of Noam Shpancer: “Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.”
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