The Chief Executive of the Mental Health Authority, Prof. Augustina Pinaman-Appau, has issued a powerful call to action, urging employers to prioritise the mental health of their employees, just as they prioritise their physical well-being.
Addressing a gathering to commemorate the 2024 World Mental Health Day in Accra on October 10, Prof. Pinaman-Appau emphasised the far-reaching implications of workplace mental health.
“Mental health challenges within the workplace may be occasioned by organisational risks including excessive workloads, understaffing, inflexible and prolonged working hours, the underutilisation or overuse of skills, poor physical working conditions, harassment or bullying, discrimination, and organisational cultures that permit or encourage negative behaviors,” she stated.
She stressed the importance of recognising the link between mental and physical well-being.
“Poor mental health not only affects individuals but also leads to physical health conditions, which in turn increases the risk of workplace accidents and decreases overall productivity,” she warned.
“Prioritising mental health is not merely a moral obligation; it is a strategic business decision,” she added. “Companies that invest in the mental well-being of their employees consistently report substantial returns in the form of enhanced employee engagement, reduced absenteeism, and higher job satisfaction. A mentally healthy workforce is a productive one, capable of driving great organisational success.”
Prof. Pinaman-Appau outlined concrete steps for promoting mental health in the workplace:
• Foster open conversations about mental well-being: Create a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health.
• Reduce stigma: Systematically dismantle the stigma associated with mental health issues.
• Provide access to resources: Offer employees access to mental health resources like counseling services, stress management programmes, and wellness initiatives.
• Empower leaders: Equip leaders and managers with the skills to recognise signs of mental health struggles and provide support to their teams.
Echoing the sentiment of inclusivity and support, Madam Estelle Appiah, Board Chair of the Mental Health Authority, who chaired the event, emphasised the need to recognise the pervasive nature of mental health challenges.
“The challenges of maintaining good mental health are not confined to any one group or demographic; they affect us all, regardless of our roles, our backgrounds, or the sectors in which we work,” she highlighted.
“By prioritising our mental well-being, we not only enhance individual lives but also improve our organisational performance. Healthy employees are engaged employees, and engaged employees are the backbone of successful organisations,” she added.
“We all have a role to play,” Prof. Pinaman-Appau said. “Today, I call upon business leaders, human resource professionals, and employees to champion mental health initiatives within their organisations.”
“Let us advocate for policies that promote work-life balance, introduce mental wellness days, and establish comprehensive support systems that ensure employee mental health needs are addressed. Together, we can create workplaces where individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.”
“As we continue on this journey, let us take practicable steps towards creating healthier, more compassionate, and more productive workplaces for all,” she urged. “We must collectively commit to making mental health a priority, ensuring that every individual brings themselves to work each day, free from the burdens of untreated mental health issues.”
She concluded, “It’s time to prioritize mental health in the workplace.” Our world today, and especially our nation Ghana, is characterised by rapid change, increasing stressors, and increasing mental health challenges. It is evidently clear that the well-being of our workforce now is, and must be a priority for every institution and organisation.
The event which was under the theme: “It Is Time to Prioritise Mental Health at the Workplace”, brought together CEOs, HR executives, and employees from various state and private institutions to share experiences and suggestions for managing employee mental well-being.
The event also served as the launchpad for a fundraising short code to solicit financial support for mental health treatment in Ghana. The public is urged to contribute through the *725*6225# short code on all networks.
Members of the public facing mental health challenges are encouraged to contact the Mental Health Authority’s helpline at 0800-678-678.
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SOURCE: DisabilityNewsGH.com
