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By Naledi Mokoena

Mental health fast facts

• More than 80 percent of employees say they would rather enjoy good mental health than a high paying job

• An estimated 12 billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety, globally

• 40 percent of C-suite executives are likely to quit within a year due to work related stress

• In 2022 a study revealed poor mental health costs the global economy one trillion dollars in lost productivity per year 

• 1 in 6 employees are affected by anxiety and depression everyday

According to Webber Wentzel, over the last few years, there has been a notable increase in the number of employees suffering from mental health-related challenges in corporate spaces, which need to be treated with both sensitivity and professionalism.

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Check in culture 

Intentionally creating a platform where employees can share work-related experiences connected to their mental health is a resourceful way managers can build a culture of checking in on employees’ well being. One-on-ones are also an effective way to create trust and open lines of communication.

Walk the talk

Openly confirming mental health as a company’s priority is a great first step and should  be followed through with the C-suite reflecting pro-mental health routines at work – which may include going for a walk during lunch time, taking leave before burning out and booking a therapy session when necessary. 

No bullying zone

According to experts, one of the significant sources of poor mental health is bullying in the workplace which may be a result of  some discrimination or isolation due to mental health issues. Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) Senior Lecturer Dr Frank Magwegwe, says bullying can result in psychological trauma and risk of suicide. “One in four South Africans report to be clinically depressed at work,” says Dr Magwegwe.

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