Mental Health
Navigating Mental Health Challenges in the Workplace
By Christine Nyandat
Haven ' t we all been Naomi Osaka at some point in our lives ? The world-renowned tennis player ' s recent decision to prioritize her mental health over press conferences at the French Open highlights the universal struggle many faces between societal expectations and personal well-being . This situation mirrors challenges encountered by individuals in various professional and personal settings .
Osaka ' s choice to skip press conferences drew criticism from tennis officials , revealing a persistent bias against mental health concerns . Benjamin F . Miller , Chief Strategy Officer for Well Being Trust , emphasizes that mental health should be treated with the same seriousness as physical health . Regardless of our professions , like Osaka , we too face choices concerning our mental wellbeing in the workplace . Irrespective of the nature of your occupation , both your job and mental health can mutually influence each other . Like Ms . Osaka , you possess options to safeguard and enhance your overall well-being .
On October 10th , we observe World Mental Health Day with the aim of increasing understanding of mental health challenges , diminishing societal stigma , and promoting improved mental health services . Every person is entitled to the utmost achievable level of mental well-being as a fundamental human right . This encompasses the right to protection from mental health risks , availability of easily accessible and culturally sensitive high-quality mental health care , and the freedom to pursue personal autonomy , selfsufficiency , and community integration .
One key objective of World Mental Health Day is to dismantle the stigma associated with mental health problems . It promotes open dialogues to foster improved comprehension and acknowledgment of individuals grappling with mental health challenges . The day serves as a prompt to extend a helping hand and show support to those confronting mental health issues . Compassion and empathy are crucial in aiding individuals to seek the assistance they require . Additionally ,
Approximately one-third of our lifetime is devoted to work , underscoring the crucial role employers and coworkers can play in fostering the well-being of individuals within the workplace . The initial step for both employers and colleagues is to establish an environment that prioritizes mental well-being and psychological safety . it offers a forum to enlighten the public about the significance of mental health and the available resources for those in need . Through heightened awareness , we empower individuals to actively manage their mental well-being .
The World Health Organization defines mental health as a state of well-being that empowers individuals to cope with life ' s stresses , realize their abilities , learn , work effectively , and contribute to their communities . On November 19 , International Men ' s Day globally celebrates the positive contributions men make to the world , their families , and communities . The theme for 2023 was “ ZERO MALE SUICIDE ," emphasizing the collective effort needed to prevent male suicide . According to a 2023 World Health Organization report , approximately 700,000 people commit suicide annually , with many more attempting suicides worldwide . In 2022 , WHO Africa highlighted that the suicide rate for men on the continent was 18 per region , surpassing the global rate of 12.4 per 100,000 population . Experts have identified suicide as an increasingly serious public health concern with significant repercussions .
Why Is It Important To Talk About Mental Health ?
Mental health has long been a neglected topic , shrouded in silence and stigma . Breaking this silence is crucial . Talking about mental health is of paramount importance as it challenges and rejects the narrow stereotypical norms that constrain both physical and emotional well-being . These societal norms can have detrimental effects on relationships , affecting men ' s
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