World Mental Health Day 2024 on 10 October focuses on the theme, “It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace.”
This theme highlights the importance of creating work environments that support mental well-being and encourage openness about mental health issues, a vital concern for South African workplaces as well.
Recent data on mental health in South Africa paints a concerning picture.
A study by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) shows that mental illness costs the South African economy over R40 billion annually in lost productivity, absenteeism, and presenteeism (when employees are present but not productive due to mental health challenges).
In a recent survey conducted by the Global Wellness Institute, 36% of South African employees reported experiencing anxiety, stress, or depression related to work, indicating that mental health in the workplace is a growing concern.
More than 71% are either disengaged or actively disengaged in their professional roles.
Dr. Lerato Motshudi, medical manager at Netcare Akeso, explains that mental health influences how we connect with others, handle stress, and perform everyday tasks.
Mental illness can affect anyone, and one in five South Africans experiences suicidal thoughts in their lifetime. Despite these statistics, stigma often prevents people from seeking help.
Megan Gonsalves, Netcare Akeso’s Crisis Line manager, emphasizes the need for early intervention. Recognizing the early signs of mental distress—such as changes in mood, sleep patterns, or eating habits—can prevent conditions from worsening.
Workplaces in South Africa are increasingly recognizing the need to address mental health issues.
The Occupational Care South Africa (OCSA) reports that 70% of South African companies now offer some form of mental health support. However, much more needs to be done to create open, supportive environments for employees struggling with mental health challenges.
Netcare Akeso provides a 24-hour Crisis Line at 0861 435 787 for those in need of support, and offers an online self-assessment tool to encourage self-awareness of mental health. Prioritizing mental health in the workplace is key to enhancing productivity, creativity, and overall job satisfaction in South Africa’s workforce.
Toolbox for the workplace: Mental health awareness
- Talk about it – “One of the best ways to break down stigma is to talk openly about mental health and mental illness. Such conversations allow incorrect information to surface, such as commonly used words that people subconsciously use to refer to people with mental illness, and this presents an opportunity for incorrect perceptions to be challenged.”
- All for one and one for all – Encourage teams to look out for their teammates in upbeat times of mental wellness, as well as at times when someone is struggling and might need a little support. Some people do not let on that they are struggling and may continue to act upbeat. No one checks in on an upbeat friend because they are mistakenly assumed to be okay.
- Make an effort to include everyone – “Isolation is the opposite of what is required for anyone to be healthy, happy and feel connected. Keep up connections with your colleagues and notice if someone is not themselves to show them that they are valued and supported, even if they are having a tough time at present.”
- Regular reminders – To ensure mental health remains top-of-mind all year round, consider regular toolbox talks and place posters on office noticeboards with resources for accessing professional mental health support confidentially.
- Foundations of mental and physical health – Making all employees aware of how to be mentally healthy will have a positive effect on mental and physical health, which allows people to thrive in all spheres of life. It is also important to focus on the culture of the wider organisation to ensure that it promotes mental wellness.
“Focusing on exercise, adequate sleep, good nutrition, good social and family connections, and mindfulness as part of a balanced lifestyle are the mainstays of a healthier mental state of being,” Dr Motshudi says.
