A report by the World Health Organisation (WHO) found that nearly a billion people worldwide live with a diagnosable mental health disorder.1
Yet, most do not receive effective care due to underdeveloped health systems and support services.
In the Western Pacific Region alone — which Malaysia is a part of — over 215 million people suffer from mental health conditions2. This region faces unique stressors like rapid urbanisation, poverty, demographic shifts and digitalisation of lifestyles, all of which impact mental health.
Closer to home, the National Health and Morbidity Survey revealed that the prevalence of depression in Malaysia doubled between 2019 and 20233. More worrying is the fact that the highest rates of depression were found among individuals aged 16-19, 20-29 and 30-39.
These age groups are integral parts of the current and future workforce, and their mental health issues must be addressed to prevent more severe conditions.
TRANSFORMING WORKPLACES
Workplaces can either contribute to stress or act as a support system.
In high-stress sectors like healthcare, long hours, high demands, and limited support lead to burnout and anxiety, exacerbated by bullying or lack of management support.
Economic pressures and the growing gig economy also add stressors such as income instability and social isolation, which affect younger workers in particular.
The impact of poor mental health extends beyond the workplace to productivity, family life and communities.
On the other hand, supportive workplaces yield economic and social benefits.
Workplaces can become more supportive by implementing interventions that prevent mental health conditions, promote positive mental health and support employees with mental health issues.
The Health Ministry recently collaborated with the Human Resources Ministry to promote mental health at the workplace via a memorandum of understanding between the National Centre of Excellence for Mental Health and the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health.
There is also an existing programme called KOSPEN-WOW aimed at increasing awareness of mental health issues at work.
PROMOTING MENTAL HEALTH INCLUSIVITY
Supportive workplaces and community networks play a crucial role in addressing mental health challenges, helping individuals manage their conditions while integrating more fully into society.
Community networks provide essential services — like peer support groups, mental health education and local resources — that aid individuals in managing their well-being. Together with workplace initiatives, these networks create a well-rounded support system, tackling mental health from different angles.
Yet, many people with mental health conditions face significant barriers to employment due to stigma and discrimination, which could jeopardise their economic stability and worsen mental health issues.
A safe and healthy work environment is a fundamental right, and overcoming these barriers can reduce risks related to unemployment and poor mental health, benefiting communities as a whole.
Employers, policymakers, and community leaders must unite to foster supportive, inclusive and respectful workspaces. Investing in mental health resources, building inclusive workplaces, and supporting mental health across both workplaces and communities is essential to nurturing a healthier, more productive society.
References:
1World mental health report: transforming mental health for all. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2022. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.
2Regional framework for the future of mental health in the Western Pacific 2023–2030. Manila: World Health Organization Regional Office for the Western Pacific; 2023. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.
3Institute for Public Health 2024. National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023: Non-communicable Diseases and Healthcare Demand - Key Findings