Call to tackle mental health stigma in the workplace

Mutsawashe Mashandure
Herald Correspondent
Zimbabwe National Association for Mental Health Focal Person for Mufakose (ZIMNAMH) Miss Jacquelyn Munyamba has urged employers and managers to tackle mental health stigma in the workplace, which can lead to reduced productivity, increased absenteeism and high staff turnover rates.
Speaking at the belated World Mental Health Day in Harare on Monday, she said the day’s theme, “Workplace Mental Health”, underscored the importance of addressing mental well-being in the workplace.
“The theme highlights the importance of addressing mental health and well-being in the workplace, for the benefit of people, organisations and communities,” she said.
Established in 1992 by the World Federation for Mental Health, World Mental Health Day promotes global mental health awareness, evolving to spotlight various issues and advocate for better care.
Munyamba stressed the significance of commemorating the day to raise awareness about mental health issues in the workplace and well-being.
“Integrating mental health awareness into workplace culture offers strategic advantages for organisations,” she said.
Miss Manyamba emphasized the importance of prioritising mental health in organisations to enhance overall performance.
“A mentally healthy workplace involves staff training on mental health, addressing discrimination and bullying, and encouraging open discussions about mental health issues,” she said.