World Mental Health Day (WMHD) is observed on October 10th and this year’s theme, “It Is Time to Prioritise Mental Health in the Workplace,” calls for greater focus on employees’ mental well-being everywhere else. Malawi has joined the global conversation with its localised theme, “Healthy Workforce is the Best Workforce,” which unites mental health and productivity.
In recent years, the global discussion on mental health in the workplace has intensified as stress, anxiety, burnout and depression have become common. These issues can negatively impact most employees’ productivity, job satisfaction and personal lives. The 2024 WMHD aims to bring attention to the importance of mental health for both employees and organisations. Putting mental well-being in the forefront not only enhances employee morale but also reduces absenteeism, improves performance and fosters innovation.
In Malawi, mental health is still an under-discussed topic, especially in workplaces. The theme “Healthy Workforce is the Best Workforce” emphasises how mental health issues like absenteeism and presenteeism hurt productivity, particularly in low-income countries with Malawi being one of them. The economic costs of neglecting mental health are significant and addressing these challenges can lead to a healthier and even a more productive workforce.
To promote mental health, employers can take multiple steps, for instance, providing access to counselling services in both rural and urban areas, encouraging open discussions, promoting work-life balance and creating supportive work environments. Additionally, flexible hours, mental health days and training for managers to recognize mental health issues are practical steps to achieve this move.
As Malawi marks this important day together with the world, the focus is on creating awareness, breaking stigmas, and encouraging employers to prioritise mental health in their strategies. A healthy workforce truly is the best workforce and addressing mental health challenges today ensures a more resilient and productive future.
Comments