ABOUT 60 per cent of the world population is currently in work , with 15 per cent of these working-age adults reported to suffer from workplace mental disorders ( WHO , 2022 ). The number is certainly worrying , but many organisations are still not fully aware of the issue , let alone care to resolve or provide solutions to their employees . Mental health problems may include conditions such as anxiety , depression , and burnout , which affect productivity , work satisfaction , and overall organisational health ( WHO , 2022 ).
Among the main factors causing mental health issues in the workplace are excessive workload , long working hours , lack of control , conflict between individuals , and organisational problems ( Fortunisa & Darmawan , 2022 ).
WHO ( 2022 ) has estimated that mental health issues , such as anxiety and depression , will cost the global economy USD trillion every year due to loss of productivity .
Given its impact on both employee well-being and organisational performance , it is very timely to revolutionise the approach to mental health in the workplace to create a healthier and more productive environment .
BARRIERS TO DEMAND FOR CARE
Individuals with mental health issues are often stigmatised , discriminated against , and excluded , leading them to remain silent about their health conditions . Misconceptions and negative stereotypes about mental health issues contribute to this stigma .
Many cultures also regard mental health issues as personal failings or supernatural afflictions ( WHO & ILO ,
|
BY NUR FATIN AINI FEKRI ABIDIN
AND
|
ANIS NAJIHA AHMAD International Institute for Halal Research and Training ( INHART ), International Islamic University Malaysia |
2022 ). Hence , individuals may hesitate to disclose or seek help for fear of it negatively impacting their career prospects .
Affected employees are often wrongly portrayed as less competent or unreliable . This misrepresentation intensifies their isolation and prevents them from accessing necessary support .
A significant number of people also lack essential knowledge about mental health issues and the benefits of treatment . Some believe mental health issues cannot be managed . This causes them to be less likely to seek psychosocial support , often because they do not recognise the need for proper care .
Employees frequently do not realise they have a mental health issue until their condition worsens . Unclear workplace policies on mental health further contribute to this barrier , as employees may not know how to access help ( WHO & ILO , 2022 ).
Mental health care and services are also insufficient , especially in low- and middle-income countries ( LMICs ). Many organisations do not provide adequate mental health resources , such as stress management workshops or counselling services .
Even when services are available , issues such as low-quality care and confidentiality concerns further inhibit their use ( WHO & ILO , 2022 ), leaving many without the assistance they need .
WHAT ARE THE EFFECTIVE REVOLUTIONARY STRATEGIES ?
Addressing these barriers requires a comprehensive and revolutionary approach to mental health in the workplace . Abu Huraira narrated that Prophet Muhammad s . a . w said :
‘ There is no disease that Allah has created , except that He also has created its treatment ’. Sahih al-Bukhari 5678 ( Book 76 , Hadith 1 )
This hadith emphasises the Islamic
|
imperative to seek treatment , including those related to mental well-being . Ensuring mental health and well-being in the contemporary workplace is critical to organisational productivity and employee satisfaction .
According to the WHO ( 2022 ), practical strategies for revolutionising mental health in the workplace require a comprehensive approach that includes prevention , protection , promotion , and support .
These strategies are paramount for fostering a workplace culture that prioritises mental health , eliminates risks , and supports all employees in reaching their full potential .
REVOLUTIONISING MENTAL HEALTH
Revolutionising mental health in the workplace is about creating opportunities for employee development rather than simply addressing existing problems .
Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals ( SDGs ), this effort not only enhances individual well-being but also has significant social and economic impacts . Improved mental health offers far-reaching benefits that transform the workplace environment .
Effective strategies can alleviate mental health symptoms , thereby enhancing employees ’ quality of life and reducing overall suffering . Good mental health is crucial for maintaining physical health , as the two are closely interconnected .
Ensuring equitable access to mental health services for all employees , regardless of their socioeconomic background , promotes inclusivity and fosters a supportive work environment ( WHO & ILO , 2022 ).
HUMAN RIGHTS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Good mental health is a fundamental
|