Ministry of Health introduces workplace mental health guidelines
Every year on October 10th, the world comes together to observe World Mental Health Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and advocating for better mental health support globally.
Established by the World Federation for Mental Health in 1992, this day serves as a reminder of the importance of mental well-being and the impact it has on individuals and communities. Mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, can have profound effects on daily life, relationships, and productivity.
Unfortunately, stigma and misinformation often prevent individuals from seeking help, making awareness campaigns crucial.
This year’s theme focused on Mental Health at Work. This theme underscores the critical importance of mental health in professional settings. The aim is to highlight the essential role of mental health in professional environments, advocating for workplaces where mental health is prioritised, protected, and promoted.
Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa stated that nearly 3.7 million Kenyan workers could be affected by mental health issues, leading to a significant 0.6% GDP loss in 2020 due to reduced productivity. Barasa stated that the Ministry of Health has unveiled Kenya’s first guidelines to tackle mental health issues in the workplace.
“These guidelines aim to promote mental well-being and establish effective support systems for employees experiencing mental health issues,” she said.
The guidelines focus on promotion, prevention and care and support. Employers are encouraged to adopt mental wellness programs that prioritise employee well-being, prevent mental health problems, and offer care and support to those who need it.
The event, which was commemorated at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital, focused on the importance of promoting mental health in professional settings, creating healthy work environments and supporting employees’ mental well-being to enhance productivity and overall quality of life.
Barasa emphasised the importance of prioritising mental health in the workplace and urged people to avoid stigmatising those who struggle with mental health challenges.
“A significant portion of a person’s life is spent in the workplace. While meaningful work can provide many benefits, harmful work conditions can lead to serious mental health issues,” she said.
Barasa launched the Mathari Hospital Strategic Plan (2024-2029) which aims to improve mental healthcare quality.
Julius Ogato, CEO of Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital, noted that many people suffer from mental illnesses unknowingly. He highlighted the crucial role of mental health care in the workplace, as employees’ mental well-being directly impacts their productivity.
Fostering an environment of understanding and compassion can significantly reduce the stigma associated with mental health disorders. By encouraging open dialogue and providing education, we can create a society that prioritises mental well-being for everyone.
