World Mental Health Day 2024 (2024)

Mental health problems have a direct impact on workplaces through increasing absenteeism, reducing productivity, and increasing healthcare costs. However, stigma and lack of awareness of mental health persist as barriers to addressing mental health in the workplace.

With 60% of the global population in work, urgent action is needed to ensure work prevents risks to mental health and protects and supports mental health at work. Employers and coworkers can be agents of change in the workplace by combatting stigma and encouraging open discussion on mental health. They can also learn to identify the signs of common mental health problems such as depression and encourage colleagues who may be struggling to seek help.

Mental health and work are closely linked

A supportive work environment fosters mental health, providing purpose and stability. But poor working conditions can harm mental well-being, reducing both job satisfaction and productivity.

Workers face risks to their mental health

There are various risks to mental health that workers may face including discrimination, poor working conditions, or limited autonomy. Low paid or insecure jobs often lack adequate protections, leaving workers in these jobs more exposed to psychosocial risks.

Mental health significantly impacts individuals

Lack of support for people with mental health conditions can negatively impact their self-confidence, enjoyment at work, capacity to work, absences and ability to gain employment. Carers and family members are similarly affected.

It also has wider impacts on work and society

Poor mental health can lead to decreased performance, absence from work, and increased staff turnover. Depression and anxiety alone result in the loss of approximately 12 billion workdays each year.

Stigma creates barriers to employment

Stigma and discrimination often prevent people with mental health conditions from seeking help or finding and keeping jobs. Reducing workplace discrimination through awareness, training, and engagement with people living with mental health conditions creates healthier, more inclusive work environments​.

Workers need support to participate and thrive at work

Employers should apply reasonable accommodations to support workers with mental health conditions in the workplace . This means, for example, organizing regular supportive meetings, scheduling frequent breaks, gradually reintroducing workers to tasks, and providing storage for medication.

Managers should receive training to support workplace mental health

Employers should provide managers with training to recognize and address stressors in the workplace. Trained managers can effectively support their teams and foster a healthier, more supportive work environment.

Government action and collaboration are essential

Governments, employers, and representative organizations must work together to create policies that prevent mental health risks, promote well-being, and build supportive workplaces where mental health is prioritized.

Make sure to care for your own mental health

Although governments and employers have the primary responsibility to protect and promote mental health at work, you can take steps to support your own well-being. Learn techniques to manage stress and stay mindful of changes in your mental health. If needed, reach out for support from a trusted friend, family member, colleague, supervisor, or health professional.

Mental health at work: policy brief

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Guidelines on mental health at work

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Fact sheet: Mental Health at Work

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