Excessive workloads, poor management contribute to workplace mental health struggles

KUALA LUMPUR: Fear of stigma, damaged career prospects and possible dismissal are driving some workers with mental health conditions to hide their struggles and avoid seeking treatment.

The National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023 found that 4.6 per cent of people aged 16 and above experienced symptoms of depression, equivalent to about one million people. This was double the 2.3 per cent recorded in 2019.

Although the figures do not cover all mental health conditions or specifically focus on workers, they point to a rise in depression, with workplace stress among the potential contributing factors.

CPC International psychologist Dr Noor Aishah Rosli said employed individuals with mental health conditions often conceal their diagnoses for fear of being shamed or embarrassed, or being perceived by employers as unable to perform their duties.

Based on her experience treating patients, Noor Aishah said many adult clients continued working and appeared to function normally, with their productivity largely unaffected, partly due to strong family support.

"They also attend follow-up appointments and therapy sessions, and take medication to help manage their symptoms. Many feel inferior, afraid and ashamed because society does not support them and often equates mental illness with being 'crazy'.

"However, mental health conditions vary widely, including depression, schizophrenia, panic attacks, anxiety and stress. With therapy and medication, those affected can maintain good work performance, except in severe cases," she said.

She added that individuals who could interact with family members and others, remain calm and engage socially could often continue working.

Noor Aishah said she had also treated people who developed mental health conditions after experiencing excessive workplace pressure, adding that such cases were not isolated.

"Many workers are diagnosed with mental health conditions partly because of inconsiderate employers who assign workloads beyond their capabilities, as well as supervisors or managers who adopt an overly commanding approach.

"This puts workers under extreme stress. Employers often justify such practices by arguing that employees are paid to carry out any assigned task, without considering their mental and physical wellbeing," she said.

She said employers' awareness and sensitivity towards mental health should also be assessed, stressing that every organisation had a responsibility to safeguard its employees' wellbeing.

Noor Aishah proposed that organisations conduct psychological assessments for employees at all levels, from senior management to frontline staff. The government could also consider implementing similar measures through the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso).

"The agency under the Human Resources Ministry could provide trained counsellors or psychologists to help workers facing workplace problems.

"Every organisation should have mental health screening to assess employees' emotional wellbeing, personality and ability to perform specific tasks.

"This is not new, as employers in developed countries already conduct psychological assessments. Such measures are important to ensure fairness to employees," she said.

She also stressed the importance of creating a healthier working environment through better workplace layouts, brighter and more welcoming spaces, and positive social activities to improve employees' morale.