By Datuk Dr Muhammed Radzi Abu Hassan & Dr Rabindra Abeyasinghe

10 October marks World Mental Health Day, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues globally and mobilising efforts in support of mental health. Nearly a billion people worldwide live with a diagnosable mental health disorder yet most do not receive effective care due to underdeveloped health systems and support services. In the Western Pacific Region alone, over 215 million people suffer from mental health conditions, with Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) from these conditions surpassing even those attributed to sexually transmitted infections, respiratory disease, cardiovascular disease and cancers. This region, home to a quarter of the world’s population faces unique stressors such as rapid urbanisation, experience of poverty, demographic shifts and digitalisation of lifestyles, all of which impact mental health.

In today’s fast-paced world, where nearly 60% of the global population spends a significant portion of their lives at work, the mental health of employees has become a critical issue. This year’s World Mental Health Day highlights the vital connection between mental health and work. The workplace environment can either exacerbate or alleviate mental health conditions, making it both a risk and a protective factor. High stress levels, job insecurity and poor work-life balance are common risk factors that negatively impact employees’ mental health. Conversely, supportive management, a positive work environment and access to mental health resources can promote mental health and well-being.

Rising Mental Health Concerns and Changing Employment Landscapes in Malaysia

Recent findings from the National Health and Morbidity Survey reveal a troubling trend: the prevalence of depression in Malaysia has doubled between 2019 - 2023. The highest rates of depression are found among individuals aged 16-19, followed by those aged 20-29 and 30-39. These age groups are integral parts of the future and current Malaysian workforce and their mental health issues must be addressed to prevent more severe conditions.

For instance, a young professional in their late twenties working in Kuala Lumpur might face immense pressure to perform, coupled with long working hours and limited time for personal life. Economic challenges and higher living costs may lead some to take on extra work online, further increasing the stressors on one’s mental health. A report by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) showed a significant growth in the local gig economy with more than 100,000 new participants between 2022 and 2023. This brings new stressors such as the experience of social isolation if working alone or remotely, uncertainty and instability of income and anxiety for the future due to market competitiveness, perceptions about artificial intelligence and the lack of social protection. Without adequate support, these stressors can lead to burnout and depression, affecting overall productivity and quality of life.

Implications of Poor Mental Health in the Workplace

The impact of mental health issues in the workplace is profound. Economically, poor mental health leads to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism and higher turnover rates. Globally, it is estimated that 12 billion working days are lost each year due to mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, costing the global economy 1 trillion US dollars in lost productivity. Poor mental health in the workplace can also impact the working environment and interpersonal relationships, leading to increased tension and conflict, workplace harassment, bullying, discrimination and exclusion. Outside of the workplace, impacts of poor working environments can extend to families and communities affecting interpersonal relationships and lifestyle choices.

In healthcare settings, the challenges are particularly acute. Healthcare professionals often work in high-pressure environments with long hours, high patient loads and the emotional toll of dealing with illness and death. These factors can contribute to burnout, anxiety and depression. Additionally, toxic work environments characterised by lack of support, inadequate staffing and poor management can exacerbate these issues. Healthcare workers may also face bullying and harassment from colleagues or superiors, further impacting their mental health and job satisfaction. The lack of a respectful workspace can significantly affect employees’ mental health across various sectors. A respectful workspace is one where employees feel valued, heard, and supported. When this is lacking, employees may experience feelings of isolation, low morale, and decreased motivation. This can be particularly detrimental in high-stress professions, where the absence of respect and support can lead to severe mental health issues.

The Need for Supportive and Inclusive Workplaces

Given the potential impacts of mental health challenges, it is essential to invest in mental health support and foster inclusive workplaces that accommodate the needs of all employees, including those with mental health conditions. Creating such environments can yield substantial economic benefits, as well as improve familial and community well-being. However, many individuals with mental health conditions face barriers in securing and maintaining employment due to stigma and discrimination, which not only threatens their economic stability but can also exacerbate their mental health issues. A safe and healthy work environment is a right for all, and addressing these barriers can help mitigate the risk factors associated with unemployment and poor mental health, benefiting the entire community.

Workplaces can become more supportive by implementing interventions that prevent mental health conditions, promote positive mental health, and support employees with mental health issues. These interventions can include improving working conditions, creating an enabling and respectful workplace, providing manager training in mental health, and offering supported employment initiatives and return-to-work programs.

The Ministry of Health has recently taken an important step by collaborating with the Ministry of Human Resources through a memorandum of understanding between the National Centre of Excellence for Mental Health (NCEMH) and the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) for mental health at the workplace. There is also an existing programme called the KOSPEN-WOW to increase awareness on mental health issues at work. There is however a need to further enhance the current scope of services to include quality promotive and preventative services in the community for support.

The Role of Community Networks and Steps Toward Deinstitutionalisation

Deinstitutionalisation refers to the process of shifting mental health care from large, centralised institutions to community-based settings. This approach emphasises the importance of integrating individuals with mental health conditions into society, allowing them to live more independently and with dignity.

Creating mental health inclusive and supportive workplaces can enhance mental health support within the community. Community support networks play a vital role in promoting mental health and is a step towards destigmatising mental health conditions and deinstitutionalisation.

Community networks can provide essential services such as peer support groups, mental health education, and local resources that help individuals manage their conditions. These networks can work in tandem with workplace initiatives to create a comprehensive support system that addresses mental health from multiple angles. By fostering mental health inclusive workplaces, we can support this transition by ensuring that individuals have access to services that protect their mental health and that people with mental health conditions have access to similar services and employment opportunities, preventing further marginalisation.

Mental health is an important aspect of overall well-being that needs to be supported. Addressing mental health at work is not just a moral imperative but also an economic one, as it can lead to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, a more harmonious work environment and ultimately happy families and communities. As we observe World Mental Health Day, let us commit to transforming our workplaces into environments that prioritise mental health and well-being. Employers, policymakers and community leaders must work together to create supportive, inclusive and respectful workspaces. By investing in mental health resources, promoting inclusive workplaces and supporting mental health in both the workplace and communities, we can foster a healthier, more productive society. It’s time for employers to recognise the importance of mental health and take proactive steps to support their employees’ well-being both professionally and personally.

-- BERNAMA

Datuk Dr Muhammed Radzi Abu Hassan is the Director General of Health & Dr Rabindra Abeyasinghe is the World Health Organization Representative to Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam and Singapore