Rethinking Mental Health in Corporates : An Urgent Call for Cultural Change

For many years, mental health was viewed as a personal responsibility - an aspect of life that individuals alone had to manage. This perception, however, has shifted dramatically, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Corporates now recognize that the employees' mental health is closely tied to organizational performance and business outcomes. Despite this increased awareness, many companies still fall short in their efforts to foster a truly supportive environment, and that's getting widely debated again, in view of the recent unfortunate incidents in the corporate world.

The Impact of Work Culture on Mental Health

In traditional corporate settings, physical presence has often been equated with commitment. Employees who stay late or send emails after work hours are frequently seen as dedicated, while those who leave on time may be viewed as disengaged. This mentality creates an unhealthy culture that places immense pressure on employees, leading to stress, burnout, and declining mental health.

The Stigma Surrounding Mental Health

Despite the increasing awareness, discussing mental health remains taboo in many corporate environments. Employees often fear that acknowledging their struggles or mental agony will be perceived as weakness and negatively impact their career prospects. This stigma discourages open communication about mental health and perpetuates a cycle of silence and suffering. Both families and corporations play vital roles in encouraging candid conversations about mental health.

Treat Humans with the Same Care as Machines, at the least

In our relentless pursuit of superior productivity, it’s astonishing how we often neglect the basic needs of an organisation’s most valuable resource: the employees. While we meticulously maintain machines - ensuring they don’t overheat, regularly servicing them, and adhering to operating limits - many organizations overlook the necessity of caring for the human beings who drive their success.

The Machine vs. Human Paradox

Manufacturers understand that machines require downtime and maintenance to function optimally. When a machine operates beyond its capacity, it can overheat, break down, or even become permanently damaged. This principle is well-established, yet when it comes to human beings, we often dismiss similar needs for rest, support and mental health care.

Burnout has become a common phenomenon, affecting not just machines but people too. Just as a machine can experience wear and tear, humans can suffer from physical and mental exhaustion when pushed beyond their limits. The implications of ignoring this reality can be detrimental - leading to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and high turnover rates.

A Fundamental Shift in Corporate Values

While some companies prioritize employee well-being, for many others, it is still seen as a luxury or premium benefit rather than a necessity. This mindset must change. Employee well-being should be viewed as basic hygiene, akin to maintaining equipment to ensure optimal performance.

Some Recommendations for a Healthier Work Environment

To address these challenges, sharing herewith some actionable strategies for corporates to consider:

1. Understand Your Team: Managers should take time to know their team members - their strengths, weaknesses, and capabilities. This understanding can foster a supportive atmosphere.
2. Set Realistic Goals: While performance metrics are important, it’s crucial to remember the “A” (Achievable) and “R” (Realistic) in SMART goals. Unattainable targets lead to frustration and burnout.
3. Cultivate Mutual Respect: Create a workplace culture that actively practices respect. This should be a conscious effort at all levels of the organization.
4. Redefine Managerial Roles: The role of a manager should shift from solely producing results to creating an environment where employees can perform at their best. Managers should be evaluated on their ability to support and guide their teams.
5. Mindful Performance Pay: While pay-for-performance is essential for fostering a high-performance culture, companies should remain aware of its potential side effects, such as increased stress and competition that may harm mental health.
6. Foster Open Communication: Encourage a culture where employees feel safe discussing their workload and mental health without fear of judgment. This openness allows for early intervention before issues escalate.

Conclusion

The mental well-being of employees is not just a personal matter; it is a fundamental aspect of organizational health. By reevaluating corporate cultures and embracing practices that prioritize mental health, companies can foster a more engaged, productive, and resilient workforce. The future of work must be built on a foundation of respect, understanding, and well-being for all.

Discliamer: The intention of this article is purely future-oriented, aimed at reinforcing the significance of employee well-being and not meant to malign any companies. I also acknowledge that many organizations genuinely prioritize mental health and implement progressive practices to support their employees.