ORGANISATIONS worldwide have been urged to recognise the critical importance of mental well-being and resilience within their workforce.
International SOS, the world’s leading health and security risk services company said the mental health of employees has become a pressing concern as the world continues to face unprecedented challenges, including geopolitical tensions, extreme weather events, disease outbreaks, and economic uncertainty.
"This year’s World Mental Health Day theme, “Mental Health at Work”, is a crucial reminder for organisations to take action to safeguard their workforce’s mental health and wellbeing.
"The increasing frequency and intensity of global crises, coupled with elevated job demands, are contributing to heightened levels of stress and anxiety, further exacerbating mental health concerns among the global workforce," it said in a statement.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), an estimated 15 per cent of working-age adults are experiencing a mental disorder at any single point in time.
Additionally, International SOS assistance data reveals that over the past two years, the top five mental health-related assistance requests the organisation received are anxiety, depression, panic disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and acute stress.
"Burnout has also become a prominent issue among employees, with one in four employees worldwide reporting symptoms of burnout," it said, adding that the International SOS Risk Outlook 2024 report highlights employee burnout as a major threat impacting organisations.
International SOS also said that the economic impact of mental health issues cannot be ignored.
"WHO estimates that globally, approximately 12 billion working days are lost annually to depression and anxiety, resulting in US$ 1 trillion in lost productivity per year.
"These figures highlight the importance for employers to create a workplace that promotes mental wellbeing and underscores the immense cost of neglecting employee mental health and wellbeing at work,".
Foo Pei Lynn, a psychologist with International SOS Malaysia, said World Mental Health Day is a timely reminder for organisations to acknowledge and address the profound importance of mental well-being within their workforce.
"The workplace environment can have a significant impact on employee mental health, both positive and negative, by either fostering well-being or contributing to stress and anxiety.
“Organisations can empower their employees to navigate challenges, thrive and contribute to a more positive and productive workplace by creating a supportive work environment that fosters open communication, empathy and understanding.
"Providing access to mental health professionals, counselling services, and employee assistance programmes is essential to ensure employees are equipped to navigate the complexities of today’s global landscape," she said.
She urged employers to provide employees with Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) that offer confidential counselling and support services.
Promoting the availability and benefits of EAPs can encourage employees to seek help without fear of stigma, fostering a culture of openness and support, she added. - October 9, 2024
