The once-clear boundaries between personal and professional lives have often become increasingly blurred. Change in work dynamics, facilitated by the rise of remote working, hybrid office structures, and post-pandemic changes, have drastically altered how we navigate both our work and personal spaces. Each of these shifts have profound implications for our psychological health and overall well-being.
The impact of mental health challenges isn’t isolated to the individual. It can have a ripple effect, impacting the larger workforce in tangible ways, and the collective environment, in turn, impacts each employee. The World Health Organization’s 2020 study unveiled the magnitude of this intertwined relationship, disclosing that disorders like depression and anxiety result in a staggering annual USD 1 trillion productivity loss on a global scale.
A supportive workplace isn’t one that merely encourages open discussions. It is also one where all employees, whether a manager or an intern, can freely voice their concerns, anxieties, and suggestions without judgment or consequence. It requires active and attentive listening from employers and leadership. It can also serve as an early tell-tale of any potential challenges within an organisation.