In recent years, mental health concerns have become a global challenge, affecting millions of lives across various sectors. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 15% of Indians suffer from mental health problems, with one in seven individuals experiencing some form of mental disorder. The rising prevalence of mental health issues in workplaces has pushed organizations to reevaluate how they support employee well-being. A comprehensive survey conducted by Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP (DTTILLP) titled, “Mental Health and Well-being in the Workplace”, gathered insights from 3,995 employees across the country. The report delves into the root causes of workplace stress, the economic impact of poor mental health, and employees' coping mechanisms. The findings are eye-opening:
39% of respondents refrained from seeking help due to social stigma
33% continued working despite struggling with poor mental health
29% opted to take time off to recover
20% resigned from their jobs to prioritise their mental well-being
These statistics highlight the urgent need for workplaces to create supportive environments where mental health is acknowledged, respected, and prioritised.
Why Mental Health Days Matter
While occasional stress and anxiety are normal, persistent or overwhelming feelings can negatively impact our well-being. When daily pressures begin to take a toll, a dedicated mental health day can provide a crucial opportunity for rest and rejuvenation.
A mental health day is a day when you take time off from your work and minimize your commitments or responsibilities. You can take this day off to focus on relieving stress, relaxing, having fun and preventing burnout. While this one-day mental health leave may not solve any underlying issue causing your stress and burnout, however, this can provide a much-needed day break from your hectic work schedule and let you pause, regroup, and come back with energy and fresh perspective.
A recent study reflected that 74% of Indians suffered from stress while 88% suffered from some kind of anxiety disorder. Some of the symptoms include increased heart rates, hyperventilation, chronic fatigue and difficulties with concentration. Studies reported a significant increase in the number of cases of stress and anxiety among Indians since the pandemic. (Statista.com)
Benefits of Having Mental Health Day Leave at the Workplace
Your mind needs a break, no matter how packed your schedule. Step away from the monotony and pressure to clear your thoughts, improve sleep, process emotions, relax, and reduce stress. It's an opportunity to disengage from the constant demands of work, allowing your mind to rest and recharge. By taking time for yourself, you can gain a fresh perspective, enhance your creativity, and improve your overall well-being. Prioritizing mental breaks can also lead to increased productivity and a greater sense of fulfilment in both your personal and professional life. This pause is not merely a luxury; it's a necessity for maintaining mental clarity and emotional resilience. It allows you to become more present in your daily life, fostering stronger connections and a deeper appreciation for the moments that truly matter. Moreover, it provides a crucial space for self-reflection, enabling you to better understand your needs and aspirations. In essence, taking a break is an investment in your long-term health and happiness, ensuring that you can navigate life's challenges with greater ease and composure.
For employers, prioritizing employee well-being translates into tangible benefits. Investing in mental health initiatives demonstrably increases employee productivity and performance, as workers feel more supported and engaged. Furthermore, fostering a positive company culture through these efforts significantly lowers attrition rates, reducing costly turnover. Ultimately, a commitment to employee well-being enhances employer branding, attracting and retaining top talent by showcasing the company as a caring and supportive workplace.
How Companies Can Prioritise Mental Health at Work
Protecting and promoting mental health in the workplace involves enhancing the ability to identify and address mental health conditions, especially among those in supervisory roles like managers.
To support mental well-being, the WHO recommends the following:
Manager Training for Mental Health: Equipping managers with the skills to recognize and respond to employees experiencing emotional distress. This training enhances interpersonal abilities, such as open communication and active listening, while also fostering a better understanding of how workplace stressors impact mental health and how they can be effectively managed.
Mental Health Awareness and Literacy Training: Educating employees to improve their knowledge of mental health issues, helping to reduce stigma and encouraging a more supportive work environment.
Stress Management and Coping Interventions: Offering programs that help individuals build skills to manage stress and alleviate mental health symptoms through psychosocial interventions, along with opportunities for leisure-based physical activities.
Indian and Global Companies Leading the Way in Mental Health Initiatives
Several Indian and global companies have recognized the importance of mental health and have begun implementing comprehensive wellness programs. In India, Tata Steel, Infosys, and Wipro are leading the charge with counselling services, mental health leaves, and employee assistance programs (EAPs). According to a Deloitte report, around 80% of Indian professionals have faced mental health challenges in the past year, emphasizing the urgent need for workplace interventions (Deloitte).
Infosys offers 24/7 counselling services to employees and their families, particularly during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic (Infosys). Wipro provides a wellness platform with access to doctors, nutritionists, and health coaches, along with virtual consultations and emergency care (HiFives).
Globally, companies like Google, Microsoft, and Colgate Palmolive (India) Limited are setting benchmarks by offering mental health days, therapy sessions, and mindfulness programs, promoting holistic well-being. Google provides on-site wellness programs and employee resource groups that focus on emotional well-being, while Microsoft has integrated mental health benefits into their health insurance plans, offering counselling sessions and stress management workshops
Small Yet Impactful Actions for Small Businesses
Even a small business can play a vital role in promoting mental health at workplaces by implementing simple yet effective initiatives:
Mental Health Awareness from Day One: Allocate a dedicated day during employee onboarding to create awareness about mental health. Allow employees to avail of Mental Health Day Leave from the first day of employment.
Quarterly Mandatory Training: Organize stress-relieving workshops and mental health training sessions at the end of every quarter. Invite certified therapists and professionals to teach mindfulness techniques and coping strategies.
Post-Employment Support: Enable former employees to access mental health services from the platforms they used while working. By allowing individuals to continue their mental health journey independently, businesses show a lasting commitment to their well-being.
Regular check-ups, consistent awareness campaigns, and prioritizing mental health day at the workplace will help individuals understand when to seek professional help and how to maintain emotional balance.
What to Expect from a Mental Health Day Leave
A mental health day isn't just about staying in bed all day or endlessly scrolling through social media in the name of self-care. It's not about avoiding your problems — it's about giving yourself the time and space to recharge your mind and restore your emotional balance.
Taking a mental health day means focusing on what you truly need to feel better — whether it's de-stressing, processing emotions, or simply taking a break from the daily grind. When planned mindfully, a mental health day can help you:
· Relieve stress
· Understand and manage your emotions
· Relax and unwind
· Reset your mindset
· Rest and recharge
· Reflect and gain a fresh perspective
Problems often feel heavier when you're constantly surrounded by them. Stepping away from work and dedicating time to self-care can give your mind the break it needs, allowing you to return with renewed energy and clarity.
Conclusion: Let’s Prioritise Mental Health at Workplace
Creating a mental healthy days at the workplace isn't just a policy — it's a commitment to people. Companies that prioritize mental health empower their employees to thrive, fostering a culture where well-being matters as much as performance. It's time to break the silence, challenge the stigma, and embrace mental health as a core pillar of workplace wellness. Start by implementing mental health days, providing training programs, and creating safe spaces where employees feel heard and supported. Because when employees feel their best, they give their best — and that’s a win for everyone.
