World Mental Health Day 2024

World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10, was first initiated in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH). This global observance aims to raise awareness about mental health issues and mobilize efforts in support of mental health care worldwide.

Objective of that day

• To raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health.
• The Day provides 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.

Theme 2024

• Mental Health at Work

• It highlights the critical connection between mental health and the workplace. With an estimated 60% of the global population in some form of employment, addressing mental health at work has become imperative.
• Safe and inclusive work environments can promote mental well-being, whereas poor working conditions can result in significant mental health risks.
• The theme emphasizes the importance of taking collective action to ensure that workplaces foster mental health, protect against harm, and support those who need help.

Mental Health in the Workplace: Key Factors and Considerations

1. Mental Health and Work: A Close Relationship

• A supportive work environment fosters mental well-being by providing purpose, stability, and job satisfaction. Employees in such environments tend to be more motivated, productive, and satisfied with their jobs.
• Adverse working conditions—such as stress, discrimination, abuse, and micromanagement—can negatively affect mental health, reducing productivity and morale, and creating a hostile workplace environment.

2. Risks to Workers’ Mental Health

• Employees in low-paid or insecure jobs face higher psychosocial risks, such as discrimination, limited autonomy, and inadequate protections, making them more vulnerable to mental health issues.
• Insecure work environments, lack of support, and high-pressure tasks can exacerbate mental health challenges, leading to increased stress and anxiety.

3. Impact on Employees

• Without support, employees with mental health challenges may experience reduced self-confidence, diminished job satisfaction, and increased absenteeism.
• The impact often goes beyond the workplace, affecting the employee’s ability to maintain employment and putting additional strain on family members and caregivers.

4. Broader Effects on Work and Society

• Poor mental health in the workplace leads to absenteeism, reduced performance, and high turnover. Globally, depression and anxiety cause the loss of around 12 billion workdays annually, highlighting significant economic and social consequences.
• Untreated mental health issues in employees can hinder productivity and societal contribution, further exacerbating economic losses.

5. Stigma and Barriers to Employment

• Stigma surrounding mental health can prevent individuals from seeking help or maintaining employment, leading to workplace discrimination.
• Raising awareness and engaging employees through mental health training and programs can create more inclusive workplaces that support mental well-being and break down stigma.

6. Supporting Workers to Thrive

• Employers can implement reasonable accommodations such as regular supportive meetings, scheduled breaks, and a gradual return to tasks to help employees manage mental health conditions while remaining productive.
• Even small actions, such as providing safe medication storage, can make a significant difference in supporting mental health at work.

7. Training Managers to Support Mental Health

• Employers should invest in training managers to recognize and address mental health stressors. Trained managers can promote a positive, supportive environment that reduces workplace stress and enhances overall well-being.

8. Government Action and Collaboration

• Governments, employers, and organizations must collaborate to develop policies that prevent mental health risks in the workplace. These initiatives should aim to prioritize mental health and ensure employee protections.
• A unified approach is essential for creating healthy, supportive, and mentally safe work environments.

9. Taking Care of Your Own Mental Health

• While employers and governments play a significant role, individuals can also take steps to protect their mental health by learning stress management techniques and staying mindful of mental health changes.
• If needed, reaching out to trusted friends or mental health professionals can provide vital support, ensuring personal mental well-being remains a priority.

Mental Health-Recommendations from Economic Survey 2023-24

• According to the National Mental Health Survey (NMHS) 2015-16, 10.6% of Indian adults suffer from mental disorders, with treatment gaps ranging between 70% and 92%.
• Mental morbidity rates are higher in urban metro regions (13.5%) compared to rural areas (6.9%) and urban non-metro areas (4.3%).
• Data from NCERT’s Mental Health and Well-being of School Students Survey shows rising mental health issues among adolescents, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, with 11% feeling anxious, 14% experiencing extreme emotions, and 43% reporting mood swings.
• Mental health disorders result in significant productivity losses, including absenteeism, decreased efficiency, and higher healthcare costs. Poverty, stressful living conditions, and financial instability also elevate the risk of mental health issues.