“It’s Time to Prioritise Mental Health in the Workplace” – UN chief

Addis Ababa, October 10, 2024 (FBC) – In his message on World Mental Health Day, the UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that it is high time to prioritise mental health in the workplaces around the world.

“Around the world, roughly one in every eight people are living with a mental disorder. No community or society is spared. Suicide remains a major cause of death among young people, and millions of individuals continue to suffer in silence,” Mr. Guterres stated.

It was indicated that this year’s World Mental Health Day focuses on prioritizing mental health in the workplace.

Sixty percent of people over the age of fifteen are in employment, spending the majority of their time in the workplace. And these spaces are far more than just where we carry out our jobs. Safe, healthy workplaces can provide a sense of purpose, connection and stability, while oppressive or chaotic work environments can take a heavy toll on the mental health of those who work there, the UN Secretary-General underscored.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic ushered in a new age of teleworking, the boundaries between home and work are increasingly dissolving, creating even greater challenges for protecting the mental health of employees, he noted.

According to him, work is important for well-being; but well-being is also important for work. When employers address risks to the mental health of their employees, they boost morale, lower absenteeism, and increase employee engagement and productivity, strengthening their businesses and our economies.

“Everyone, both in the workplace and beyond, should have the knowledge and resources to prioritise mental health, as well as access to quality mental health services without stigma or barriers,” the UN chief further emphasized.

On this World Mental Health Day, and every day, let us remember that there is no health without mental health, Guterres asserted.

He also called for the commitment to creating and maintaining safe, healthy work environments where people can flourish.