WORLD Mental Health Day was recognised on October 10, as a time to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilise efforts in support of mental health.

The day provided an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.

This year, the World Health Organization (WHO) united with partners to highlight the vital connection between mental health and work.

“Safe, healthy working environments can act as a protective factor for mental health. Unhealthy conditions including stigma, discrimination, and exposure to risks like harassment and other poor working conditions, can pose significant risks, affecting mental health, overall quality of life and consequently participation or productivity at work,” WHO said. “With 60 per cent of the global population in work, urgent action is needed to ensure work prevents risks to mental health and protects and supports mental health at work.”

WHO said it is essential for governments, employers, the organisations which represent workers and employers, and other stakeholders responsible for workers’ health and safety to work together to improve mental health at work. Action to address mental health at work should be done with the meaningful involvement of workers and their representatives, and persons with lived experience of mental health conditions.

“By investing efforts and resources in evidence-based approaches and interventions at work, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive at work and in life,” WHO said in a statement.

Mental health and work are closely linked.

A supportive work environment fosters mental health, providing purpose and stability. But poor working conditions can harm mental well-being, reducing both job satisfaction and productivity.

Workers face risks to mental health

There are various risks to mental health that workers may face including discrimination, poor working conditions, or limited autonomy. Low paid or insecure jobs often lack adequate protections, leaving workers in these jobs more exposed to psychosocial risks.

Impact on individuals.

Lack of support for people with mental health conditions can negatively impact their self-confidence, enjoyment at work, capacity to work, absences and ability to gain employment. Carers and family members are similarly affected.

Wider impact on work and society.

Poor mental health can lead to decreased performance, absence from work, and increased staff turnover. Depression and anxiety alone result in the loss of approximately 12 billion workdays each year.

Stigma creates barriers to employment

Stigma and discrimination often prevent people with mental health conditions from seeking help or finding and keeping jobs. Reducing workplace discrimination through awareness, training, and engagement with people living with mental health conditions creates healthier, more inclusive work environments​.

Supporting workers to participate and thrive in work

Employers should apply reasonable accommodations to support workers with mental health conditions in the workplace . This means, for example, organising regular supportive meetings, scheduling frequent breaks, gradually reintroducing workers to tasks, and providing storage for medication.

Training managers to support mental health

Employers should provide managers with training to recognise and address stressors in the workplace. Trained managers can effectively support their teams and foster a healthier, more supportive work environment.

Government action and collaboration are essential

Governments, employers, and representative organisations must work together to create policies that prevent mental health risks, promote well-being, and build supportive workplaces where mental health is prioritised.

Taking care of your own mental health

Although governments and employers have the primary responsibility to protect and promote mental health at work, you can take steps to support your own well-being. Learn techniques to manage stress and stay mindful of changes in your mental health. If needed, reach out for support from a trusted friend, family member, colleague, supervisor, or health professional.