Mind over the machine

James May says, “Modern man is in crisis. He has degenerated from the redoubtable pillar he became through centuries of refinement and slipped resignedly into the popular depiction of himself as a witless under-achiever, incapable of looking after himself or those around him.” Focusing solely on the pragmatic, economic and materialistic dimensions of a man’s value and worth in this world of cutthroat competition has proved to be counter-productive in terms of healing and rescuing the people from multiple global issues.

With October 10 observed as the World Mental Health Day, as usual, to internationally raise awareness about mental health subjects and encourage efforts to support mental well-being of the people, this year’s theme, announced by the WHO, is "Mental Health at Work". It decidedly emphasises the critical importance of mental health at the workplace, and is particularly relevant given the increasing recognition of the role that work environments play in influencing employees' mental health and fitness.

Over the last three decades, the care and treatment of people with mental disorders has increasingly become the subject of heated socio-political discussions and observations. Psychosomatic disorder has become one of the most important global health topics, as its impact is felt across all sectors of life. With more than 264 million people globally suffering from depression alone, and millions more affected by other mental health conditions such as anxiety, the need to address mental health concerns has never been more urgent.

We must not be oblivious of the fact that all the trends of modernisation, technological advancements, conquering of the spaces and planets, and socio-economic developments are for the sake of human beings-the most precious creation, produce and manufacturing of the universe. So, human soul and essence cannot be sacrificed at the altar of mechanisation and robotical outcomes. The workplace is more than just a space for professional achievement—it’s a setting where employees spend a large portion of their waking lives. The nature of the work environment can significantly influence an individual’s mental health, for better or for worse. A supportive and inclusive workplace can help prevent mental health challenges and contribute to an employee’s overall well-being, whereas a toxic work environment can exacerbate stress and lead to serious mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, and burnout.

Unfortunately, when we talk and even think about health issues at workplace, we always consider physical fitness and safety and precautionary measures for the workers. Especially in our part of the world, the psychological and mental health problems are not recognised or perceived in society, in general. Expecting the realisation and acknowledgement of such issues at workplace is a rare phenomenon, here. We have been still struggling hard to assure or recognise even protective costumes, safety helmets and other precautions for the employees, especially the blue-collar workers. Even we do not bother to provide a very basic kind of dispensary or general medical unit, equipped with minimum facilities and trained paramedical personnel, for maintaining the physical fitness of the workforce.

It would not be wrong to opine that the modern workplace has undergone significant transformations in recent years, driven by globalisation, technological advancements, and the aftershocks of the COVID-19 pandemic. While these changes have brought about new opportunities, they have also exacerbated stressors for employees. Long hours, constant connectivity, job insecurity, and the pressures of high productivity have placed unprecedented mental strain on workers. Thus, addressing mental health in the workplace has become essential not just for the well-being of employees, but also for the productivity and sustainability of organisations.

As a unique product of Nature, man has its limitations, diversities and, above all, psycho-emotional mechanisms that have to be considered and realised by the crazy corporate gurus and management doyens. The studies have shown that poor mental health among employees costs the global economy billions of dollars each year in lost productivity. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), depression and anxiety alone cost the global economy $1 trillion per year in lost productivity. When mental health issues are not addressed, the effects are widespread. Decreased productivity, absenteeism, and presenteeism (being physically present at work but mentally disengaged) are just a few of the outcomes that not only harm individuals but also businesses. There are several factors in the workplace that can contribute to poor mental health. These include excessive workloads, unrealistic deadlines, poor management, lack of control over one’s tasks, job insecurity, and bullying or harassment. In high-pressure environments, employees may feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities, leading to chronic stress that can deteriorate mental health.

For many, work-life balance has also become elusive. With the rise of digital connectivity, the lines between professional and personal time have blurred. Employees find it difficult to disconnect, leading to burnout—a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Burnout is particularly concerning because it is often mistaken for a lack of motivation or poor performance, rather than a legitimate health issue. Thus, the victims of such psycho-mental issues are dealt with extremely negative approaches and policies instead of handling with caring and sympathetic behaviours.

Driving home the point, the World Mental Health Day 2024’s theme, “Mental Health at Work,” offers an apt reminder of the significance of focusing on mental health in the corporations and government institutions. As the workplace keeps on progressing, it is decisive for officialdoms to take positive measures to create environs that give precedence to mental well-being. By nurturing open discussions and sharing culture, bringing down stigma, offering support resources, and sponsoring work-life balance, managers can ensure that their workers not only flourish professionally but also sustain their mental healthiness. It will pave the way for crafting happier and more betrothed employees, and stronger and more durable associations. I would love to conclude with Stephen Covey’s precious words, “The challenge of work-life balance is without question one of the most significant struggles faced by modern man.”

Muttahir Ahmed Khan is an author, analyst and educationist, and can be reached at muttahirahmedkhan@gmail.com

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