The World Health Organization (WHO) Thursday joined the global community to mark World Mental Health Day by raising awareness on mental health issues worldwide.
The WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Matshidiso Moeti, in her message to commemorate the day, stated that a healthy work environment not only provides structure and purpose, but also fosters social connections, giving individuals a sense of personal value and identity.
This year’s theme was, “It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace,” underscores the crucial role of work in shaping lives.
She stated that workplaces can also be significant sources of stress, negatively affecting both physical and mental health. Factors such as discrimination, poor working conditions, being underpaid or undervalued, harassment, bullying, and lack of control can all contribute to mental health challenges at work. Certain workers, such as those in health and emergency services, low-paid or insecure jobs, and casual labour, are particularly vulnerable due to limited support, job security, and legal protections.