In recognition of World Mental Health Day, it is paramount to acknowledge the evolving significance of mental well-being within the professional realm. The corporate sector in India is taking noteworthy steps to combat the stigma surrounding mental health, foster a supportive workplace environment, and provide vital resources to support employees’ mental well-being.
Despite being the cornerstone of individual well-being and effective functioning, the fear of stigma, bias, and discrimination continues to deter individuals from seeking assistance for their mental health.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), India grapples with a mental health burden of 2443 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) per 100,000 population, with an age-adjusted suicide rate of 21.1 per 100,000 population. The economic repercussions of mental health conditions, spanning from 2012 to 2030, are estimated at a staggering USD 1.03 trillion.
The Significance of Mental Health
Advocating for global mental health is pivotal in addressing mental health disorders on a worldwide scale. Roughly one in four individuals encounters mental health issues during their lifetime, and suicide ranks as the second leading cause of death among the youth. Shraddha Reghe, Senior Director – People Practice at Seclore, underscores the economic consequences, estimated at $6 trillion by 2030. Stigma and discrimination serve as significant barriers to seeking help, while mental health plays a pivotal role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals, encompassing aspects such as good health, poverty reduction, gender equality, and resilient communities.
In an evolving landscape where perceptions surrounding mental health are shifting, global HR leaders have acknowledged the changing dynamics within the workforce. Mental Health Day signifies a profound transformation where mental well-being is no longer an afterthought but stands as a pivotal consideration on par with work itself.
Sarma Chillara, Director HR and People Services at Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited, emphasizes that prioritizing mental wellness is not merely a matter of stress management; it constitutes a holistic approach. In this new era, it is not merely a choice but a strategic imperative for career success.
The Role of HR in Fostering Employee Mental Health
The HR department sets a precedent for the entire organization and plays a pivotal role in developing and updating policies related to mental health in the workplace. Being attuned to changing employee needs, adapting policies, and embracing new tools and technologies is key to creating a holistic and healthy employee experience. This approach is critical for resilience in the face of change, maintaining employee morale, and fostering innovation.
Mitalee, while highlighting HR’s central role in managing requests for accommodations related to mental health, underscores the importance of HR departments prioritizing inclusivity. This can be achieved through streamlining Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) standards, policies, and programs, with a focus on inclusive recruitment.
To ensure employee mental well-being, several key components are vital. Creating a healthy and supportive work environment forms the bedrock for a positive atmosphere, while fostering open communication channels with leadership serves as an early warning system for identifying potential issues. Periodic feedback sessions encourage openness and gather insights into employees’ mental health and overall well-being. Comprehensive mental health policies and programs must address concerns such as stress management, work-life balance, mental health education, and access to assistance.
HR departments should give precedence to mental health, offer support, adapt strategies, and remain open to innovative wellness approaches that align with the changing needs of the workforce. This approach contributes to enhancing organizational productivity and resilience.
Challenges Faced by Employees
Workplace challenges such as high levels of stress, pressure, and an imbalanced work-life equilibrium can lead to anxiety and burnout among employees. Advocating for flexible work schedules, promoting regular breaks, and providing guidance on establishing boundaries between professional and personal lives are recommended by Manisha Dash, Head HR – APAC, Celigo India.
Collaborating with managers to implement equitable workloads, endorsing work-life balance, and offering resources for stress management can help mitigate these challenges. Additionally, HR can support flexible work arrangements and policies that empower employees to manage their responsibilities more effectively, reducing the adverse impacts of workplace pressures on mental health.
India Inc’s Role in Advocating for Mental Health
As India Inc. embraces the art of enabling colleagues to be themselves, organizations must incorporate mental health and well-being into their programs. This includes creating comprehensive mental health learning programs to raise awareness, identify signs of poor mental health, and educate colleagues on effective communication and available support tools.
In conclusion, India Inc. is recognizing the vital importance of mental health in the workplace and taking significant steps to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for employees’ mental well-being. As the landscape continues to evolve, prioritizing mental health is becoming not just a choice but a strategic imperative for both individual success and organizational resilience.
