Mental health problems are one of the main causes for the overall disease burden worldwide. Major depression is thought to be second leading cause of disability worldwide and major contributor to the burden of suicide and ischemic heart disease.
The World Health Organization estimates that 350 million people globally suffer from mental illness, with depression on top of the list. Compared to our East African neighbors, Tanzania is leading in the suicide rate for females and is the 2nd highest for males. When compared with rest of the world, we are the 10th highest for overall suicide rate – which indicates unattended mental health issues.
My recent discussions with a number of leading Tanzanian companies revealed that while employee counseling is provided as a benefit, the utilization rate remains very low, primarily due to stigma against mental health.
Stigma in workplaces is a major issue and employees may not feel safe or supported to speak about how they are feeling. Mental health impacts on every aspect of our lives. Stress and anxiety in the workplace is a big problem and it’s an issue that we don’t talk about enough. Sleep problems, fatigue, irritability and worry, without a doubt affect a persons ability to function adequately. This leads to a significant loss in productivity and work hours.
Overcoming stigma is everyone’s responsibility and employers have a unique opportunity to start this conversation.
What stigma looks like and why is it a problem
Mental health conditions are common and treatable; so why don’t we talk about them as openly as physical conditions like diabetes or asthma? Because of negative stereotypes about mental illness that persist both in and out of the workplace, people living with mental health conditions are frequently perceived as irresponsible, lazy or dangerous. They face rejection, bullying and discrimination – because unlike physical health issues, mental health issues are often viewed as character flaws or personal weaknesses.
The cost of not speaking out
Stigma drives silence, which can prevent employees from seeking help and getting better. Employees are more likely to make up an excuse such as stomachache or a back problem for absence if they need to take time off for mental health reasons. In addition, employees are worried about the perceptions of their supervisors and colleagues.
Employers cannot afford to stay silent about mental health in the workplace because of its impact on the overall health of employees. The mind and body are connected, and people with untreated mental health conditions tend to have more health issues in general. For example, people with depression have a higher risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke.
The advantages of being stigma free
In a workplace culture where mental illness is not stigmatized and seeking help is encouraged and supported, employees are more likely to be aware of available resources, so they can start treatment sooner and recover more quickly.
Taking a stance against stigma shows all employees – not just those living with a mental health condition – that the organization values and cares about them as people. IT also demonstrates true interest in helping employees and their families living happy and healthy lives. This can help foster employee loyalty and retention – in addition to promoting awareness and acceptance outside the company and send a positive message to your customers that can help your business thrive.
Breaking down stigma and changing workplace culture
In a healthy workplace culture, disclosing a mental health condition isn’t considered a sign of weakness – and getting help is celebrated as a sign of strength.
Fighting stigma is about creating awareness, encouraging acceptance, and challenging false beliefs. It starts with breaking the silence around mental illness and educating employees about things like:
- Using the right language when talking about mental illness
- Seeing the whole person, not just their condition
- Being supportive and inclusive
When employers and leaders speak about mental illness, they send a powerful message to employees that it is OK to get help.