In recent years, mental health has increasingly gained global attention, with more people coming to terms with the fact that mental well-being is as crucial as physical health. However, for millions around the world, stigma, neglect, and lack of support continue to undermine their ability to thrive. The workplace, in particular, often becomes the center stage for this struggle, as professionals face the overwhelming pressure to perform while battling unseen emotional and psychological burdens.
The theme of World Mental Health Day 2024, with focus on “Workplace Mental Health,” brings to light the intricate connection between mental health and our professional lives. It encourages organizations to foster environments where mental well-being is not just an afterthought but an essential element of the work culture.
The Silent Struggle
Take the story of Aisha, a 35-year-old corporate executive. From the outside, she had everything—a high-paying job, a family, and the admiration of her peers. But behind closed doors, Aisha was struggling with severe anxiety and depression. Each day, the pressure of deadlines, managing a team, and balancing her family life took a toll on her well-being. Her workplace didn’t prioritize mental health, leaving her to silently battle her inner struggles, causing her to eventually burn out and leave her job.
Aisha’s story mirrors the experiences of millions worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 264 million people suffer from depression globally, with workplace-related stress being a significant contributor. According to a 2020 study by the American Psychological Association (APA), 79% of employees had experienced work-related stress, with over 40% admitting that it impacted their personal lives and mental well-being.
The Impact of Poor Mental Health on Work-Life Balance
Mental health directly influences work-life balance. When employees are emotionally exhausted, their productivity drops, creativity dwindles, and relationships—both at work and at home—suffer. According to the Mental Health Foundation, 1 in 6.8 people experience mental health issues in the workplace. Poor mental health costs businesses an estimated $1 trillion annually in lost productivity, with absenteeism and presenteeism becoming common in environments that neglect mental health support.
Stress, anxiety, and depression affect not only job performance but also interpersonal relationships, family life, and physical health. This growing epidemic is forcing businesses, nonprofits, and governments to reassess how they can better support the mental well-being of their employees.
Nonprofits Advocating for Mental Health Globally
Across the globe, nonprofit organizations have been at the forefront of advocating for mental health awareness and support, recognizing its fundamental role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages.
Mental Health America (USA)
One of the oldest and most renowned mental health advocacy groups in the United States, Mental Health America (MHA) has been raising awareness about mental health issues for over a century. MHA focuses on prevention, early intervention, and care for those living with mental health conditions. Through their workplace initiatives, MHA provides resources to help employers create mentally healthy work environments, contributing to increased employee productivity and overall well-being.
Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (Africa)
In Africa, where mental health services remain vastly underfunded, the Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI) is leading the charge. As one of the largest mental health organizations in Nigeria, MANI uses digital platforms and community engagement to provide mental health education, support, and counseling. Their advocacy has broken the silence surrounding mental health in workplaces, helping individuals access the support they need to thrive professionally and personally.
Al Jalila Foundation (Middle East)
In the Middle East, mental health advocacy is gaining momentum thanks to organizations like the Al Jalila Foundation in the United Arab Emirates. The foundation funds mental health research and provides resources to help raise awareness about the importance of emotional well-being. Al Jalila Foundation works with corporations to promote mental health in the workplace, advocating for environments that support emotional resilience and healthy work-life balance.
Mental Health and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Mental health is an essential part of global development, aligning closely with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDG 3 aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all, and mental health is a critical component of this goal. Poor mental health can hinder economic growth, increase poverty, and deepen inequality. It affects productivity, healthcare systems, and societal cohesion—making it a pressing issue not just for individuals but for entire communities and economies.
By advocating for mental health in the workplace, we contribute to achieving SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequality). Promoting mental well-being allows individuals to reach their full potential at work, leading to more sustainable business practices and inclusive societies.
A Call to Action
As we observe World Mental Health Day 2024, it’s imperative that businesses, governments, and nonprofits take tangible steps toward improving workplace mental health. Creating environments where employees feel safe to express their struggles and access support is crucial for building resilient workforces and societies. Companies must prioritize mental health training for managers, develop employee assistance programs, and promote a culture of openness about mental well-being. By investing in the mental health of their employees, businesses not only enhance productivity but also contribute to building a more equitable and sustainable future.
The Philanthropy Global Catalogue (PGC) is dedicated to amplifying voices and initiatives that drive social change, including mental health advocacy. Through its platform, PGC shines a spotlight on organizations, research, and leaders focused on improving mental well-being in the workplace. By fostering partnerships between corporations, nonprofits, and policymakers, PGC aligns with global efforts to create healthier, more supportive professional environments. PGC’s focus on sustainability and social impact makes it a powerful ally in the global movement to prioritize mental health, ensuring that workplaces become spaces where employees can thrive both personally and professionally.
Let Aisha’s story and the millions like hers serve as a reminder of the work still to be done. Together, through global partnerships and advocacy, we can foster workplaces where mental health is prioritized, ensuring that all individuals can flourish both at work and in life.
World Mental Health Day 2024 is a call to action for every one of us. Let’s build a world where mental well-being in the workplace is not just an option, but a standard practice—a cornerstone of our journey toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs