Prioritise mental health issues at the workplace

Work is a fundamental part of our lives, offering a sense of accomplishment, financial independence and confidence.

However, it can also take a significant toll on mental health. The impact of work on mental health is twofold—it can be both a source of well-being or a cause of serious harm, depending on the environment.

Unfortunately, many workplaces fail to address the mental health of employees, often with devastating consequences. Globally, around 15 per cent of the working population lives with at least one mental health condition, according to the World Health Organisation. These conditions, including anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, are often exacerbated by negative work environments that contribute to stress, burnout and physical health problems.

Kenya is not immune to this crisis. Approximately 3.7 million Kenyans, out of a working population of 24.9 million, are living with mental health conditions.

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Stress, burnout, and overwork contribute to about 36 per cent of work-related diseases, and 13 per cent of employees, report being overworked. The ripple effects are felt across the economy: in 2020 alone, mental health conditions cost the Kenyan economy Sh62.2 billion (Mental Health Investment Case 2021). This represents 0.6 per cent of the country’s GDP, with lost productivity and absenteeism accounting for nearly half of the total costs.

Globally, the situation is more alarming with WHO reporting the loss of 12 billion workdays each year associated with depression and anxiety. Mental health conditions cost the global economy approximately US$1 trillion yearly, largely due to lost productivity. While absenteeism is a clear issue, presenteeism—where employees are physically present but unable to fully function due to mental health struggles.

Addressing this crisis requires a shift in how we view mental health in the workplace. A negative work environment can push individuals towards substance use, exacerbate existing mental illnesses, or lead to premature mortality—accounting for 12 per cent of mental health-related costs in Kenya alone. The burden of untreated mental health issues is too great to ignore.

It is essential for employers to take proactive steps to promote mental wellness in the workplace. Encouraging self-care practices, such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, and healthy eating, can go a long way in reducing stress. Employers must also foster a healthy work-life balance by setting realistic goals and ensuring employees engage meaningfully with their communities.

Participating in decision-making processes is another crucial factor. When employees have a say in job design, workload management, and health initiatives, they feel more in control and supported. Organisations should also invest in mental wellness initiatives and establish robust social support systems.

Mental health is no longer a silent epidemic. The statistics are stark, but they also point to an opportunity for change. By investing in the mental well-being of employees, workplaces can not only improve individual health but also boost productivity, reduce costs, and contribute to a healthier workforce.

-The writer is family and reproductive health specialist at Amref Health Africa-Kenya