Mental health is not just a personal issue but a collective responsibility. Governments, employers, and employees all play vital roles in building workplaces that nurture both mental and physical wellbeing.
On October 10th, World Mental Health Day was celebrated, a day dedicated to raising awareness of mental health issues globally and mobilizing efforts to support mental wellbeing. Despite growing attention, many stigmas around mental health persist, preventing people from openly discussing their wellbeing. This is troubling, especially considering that in Europe, 45% of employees report facing risk factors that negatively impact their mental health.
These so-called psychosocial risk factors include excessive workloads, contradictory demands, lack of clarity or control over tasks, limited participation in decision-making, poor management of organizational changes, job insecurity, ineffective communication, lack of managerial or peer support, and psychological or sexual harassment.
Employees often experience stress when work demands exceed their capacity to cope. Prolonged stress can lead to serious mental health issues such as burnout, anxiety, depression and even suicidal thoughts. Physical health problems, like heart disease or musculoskeletal injuries, can also arise from chronic stress.
For companies, the negative effects on employees’ mental health are reflected in reduced overall performance, increased absenteeism, higher turnover, and a rise in accidents and injuries. Absences related to mental health tend to last longer, and work-related risks significantly contribute to early retirement. The financial impact on companies and society is substantial, costing billions at a national level.
Managing work-related psychosocial risks is not only a moral obligation and a smart investment for businesses but also a legal requirement under the Framework Directive 89/391/ECC. This is reinforced by framework agreements on work-related stress, harassment, and violence. Decent work environments have a positive influence on mental health, offering income security, structured routines, positive relationships, and a sense of purpose and achievement. A supportive workplace enhances employee wellbeing, which is linked to higher job satisfaction, engagement, commitment, and retention—ultimately driving company success.
Implementing effective policies and actions to improve mental health in the workplace is crucial for upholding the human right to health, including mental health, and for advancing progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
Employers can take several steps to improve mental health in the workplace. Key strategies include reducing workplace discrimination by promoting awareness, providing training, and engaging with individuals living with mental health conditions. Fostering a culture of respect and dignity is essential, regardless of race, gender identity or expression, disability, sexual orientation, social background, migrant status, religion, nationality, or any other personal characteristic. Supporting workers to thrive can be achieved by organizing regular check-ins, encouraging frequent breaks, offering greater control over tasks, and ensuring clarity around roles and responsibilities. Managers should actively engage in dialogue with employees to better understand their experiences and concerns. Additionally, training managers to support mental health is crucial. Employers should equip managers with the skills to recognize and address workplace stressors, creating a healthier and more supportive environment.
While governments and employers hold the primary responsibility for protecting and promoting workplace health, employees can also play a role in safeguarding their own wellbeing. Learning stress-management techniques, being mindful of mental health changes, and reaching out for support from trusted friends, family members, colleagues, supervisors, or health professionals can make a significant difference.
In sum, the importance of mental health in the workplace cannot be overstated. A workplace that prioritizes mental wellbeing not only supports its employees but also paves the way for greater organizational success. Mental health is not just a personal issue but a collective responsibility. Governments, employers, and employees all play vital roles in building workplaces that nurture both mental and physical wellbeing. By taking proactive steps, we can reduce stigma, promote openness, and ensure that mental health is valued as a critical element of overall success. Supporting minds at work is not only the right thing to do—it's essential for shaping a thriving, resilient workforce.
Sofia Conde, Researcher at Behavioral Insights Unit and Center for Responsible Business & Leadership of CATÓLICA-LISBON