WHO Advocates For Prioritising Mental Health In Workplaces
Princess-EkwiAjide
Ones work plays a big role in ones life as it offers structure and purpose, a sense of personal value and identity but it can also be a source of stress and mental health challenges.
Poor working conditions, like harassment, low pay, and discrimination can all negatively affect mental well-being, especially for those in high-stress or insecure jobs.
According to the World Health Organization’s Regional Director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti, only few African countries have programmes addressing workplace mental health issues even though it can lead to reduced productivity and higher staff turnover, thereby, costing the global economy one trillion dollars yearly.
The WHO Regional Director, in her message on the 2024 World Mental Health Day, said governments, employers, and individuals need to act; saying that governments can improve policies and laws to protect workers, while employers can integrate mental health into occupational safety and offer support for employees.
Individuals should learn stress management and seek help when needed, she added.
Moeti, emphasised that a healthy workforce is key to any organization’s success hence all should invest in mental health at work as it is an investment in people, productivity, and innovation.
World Mental Health Day is celebrated on October 10 every year and this year’s theme “it is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace” underscores the crucial role of work in shaping our lives.
