From the Editor’s Desk
World Mental Health Day 2024 brought a critical theme to the forefront: “It’s time to prioritise mental health in the workplace.”
Oct 18, 2024

By Patricia Pereira
World Mental Health Day 2024 brought a critical theme to the forefront: “It’s time to prioritise mental health in the workplace.” This serves as a rallying cry for all sectors to take action and address the oftenoverlooked mental health needs of workers. For many, the workplace occupies a significant portion of their lives, shaping well-being and quality of life. Yet, conversations about mental health often take a back seat to business targets and productivity goals, perpetuating an environment where stress, burnout, and anxiety thrive.
In recent years, the world has made strides in recognising the importance of mental health, yet the workplace lags behind. While the stigma surrounding mental health is decreasing, employees still find it challenging to speak openly about their struggles in professional settings. Long hours, pressure, and unrealistic expectations all contribute to an environment that can be mentally taxing. It is vital that society as a whole acknowledges the importance of mental health for both personal well-being and professional success. Ensuring a supportive workplace environment is not just a practical concern but a moral obligation.
The pressures of modern life, with its relentless drive for performance and success, can have devastating effects on mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression are now commonplace in many workplaces, leading to isolation and a sense of hopelessness for many employees. The World Health Organization (WHO) has highlighted that poor mental health is one of the leading causes of absenteeism and reduced productivity. Left untreated, mental health challenges harm not only the individual but the broader work environment, damaging relationships, lowering morale, and ultimately decreasing overall efficiency.
Catholic social teaching provides a valuable lens through which to view this issue. Work is more than a means of survival — it is a way for individuals to participate in God’s creation. As St John Paul II articulated in his encyclical Laborem Exercens, work must serve the person, not the other way around. A toxic work environment that disregards mental health undermines this core principle. Prioritising mental health in the workplace is a concrete affirmation of the dignity of the worker and an essential element of creating humane and just workspaces.
The Church has long advocated for communities to support individuals grappling with mental health challenges. Pope Francis, in particular, has been a vocal advocate for destigmatising mental illness. He urges society to view mental health conditions not as signs of weakness but as issues that require compassion, understanding, and appropriate care. In a 2019 address to health care professionals, Pope Francis pointed out that mental health needs are often invisible and, therefore, overlooked. He emphasised the importance of responding to psychological suffering with “solidarity and accompaniment,” especially from leaders and employers.
Beyond offering spiritual guidance, the Church can provide practical resources that can complement psychological support. Prayer, meditation, and the sacraments can offer strength and healing, providing a foundation for mental and spiritual well-being. However, the Church also acknowledges the vital role of professional mental health care, encouraging a holistic approach that embraces both spiritual and medical interventions.
Workplaces that fail to address mental health concerns neglect their moral responsibility to protect human dignity. Mental health must be recognised as a crucial part of measuring a workplace’s success, on par with financial performance and productivity. Global statistics show that approximately 15 per cent of working adults experience some form of mental health condition, often going untreated due to fear of discrimination. The WHO estimates that this results in a $1 trillion (RM429 trilion) annual loss in productivity. But these numbers do not reflect the real cost — borne by individuals who silently suffer under the weight of untreated mental health challenges.
For those in unsupportive work environments, the toll of depression, anxiety, and burnout is not limited to their professional lives but extends into their personal well-being. Addressing mental health in the workplace is not just about productivity; it is a matter of social justice. Catholic social teaching calls for a culture of care and solidarity. This requires workplaces to go beyond token gestures of mental health awareness and to actively foster environments that support mental well-being.
A workplace culture that normalises mental health discussions offers flexible working hours, and provides resources such as counselling services is essential for creating a healthy work-life balance. Leadership plays a vital role in embodying these values, fostering an environment where vulnerability is seen as a strength and where mental health struggles are met with empathy.
The Church joins the global call to prioritise mental health in all areas of life, including the workplace. Mental health is not just a private issue but a shared responsibility. Whether we are employers, colleagues, or members of a faith community, we are called to accompany one another in times of distress, offering compassion and practical support.
Prioritising mental health in the workplace is a way to honour human dignity and the sanctity of work. As Pope Francis reminds us, “It is not enough to give solutions to problems, we must also look into the hearts of people.” Let us answer this call, ensuring that our workplaces are places where everyone can thrive — mentally, physically, and spiritually.
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