"Utilising Digital India For Mental Health Support Biggest Takeaway From Covid"

In a world that is continually evolving, one aspect that has garnered significant attention in recent years is mental health and well-being. The workplace, where individuals spend a substantial portion of their lives, has become a pivotal battleground for promoting mental well-being. Samir Parikh, Consultant Psychiatrist and Chairperson, Fortis National Mental Health Program, Fortis Healthcare, shares his insights into the pressing need for organisations to prioritise and foster mental health in the workforce. Parikh's perspective sheds light on the importance of addressing mental health as a universal human right and outlines the challenges, solutions and the role of tele-mental health in ensuring a mentally healthy work environment.

Understanding the Stigma and the Global Perspective

The stigma and fear associated with seeking help for mental health concerns are universal challenges. Globally, about 70 per cent of individuals who need support for mental health conditions refrain from seeking help due to these concerns. In the workplace context, approximately 15 per cent of employees are likely to have mental health concerns, yet the fear of judgment and discrimination often deters them from seeking assistance.

"Mental health as a science is universal. When you talk about empathy, when you talk about being non-judgmental, you are taking away the biases that could have happened because of cultural or other issues," highlights Parikh.

The Lingering Impact of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted mental health worldwide, leading to a 25 per cent increase in anxiety and depression as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). In India, the impact is no different. While some challenges have subsided, others, such as economic difficulties and lingering insecurities, persist. Recognising that the world has not fully returned to normal, he stresses the importance of maintaining a focus on mental health.

"Some struggles linger on, and some struggles from which we have not really fully come out of, all need to be understood and addressed. Utilising digital India and digital transformation for mental health support and services is probably the biggest takeaway from COVID that we all need to take. Government initiatives such as tele-MANAS have particularly bridged the tele-mental health gap in rural and remote areas.”

Addressing Employee Burnout

There is an urgent need of recognising and addressing employee burnout in organisations. Organisations should focus on building a more comprehensive approach beyond conventional Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs). Raising awareness about mental health, continuous employee engagement, and tele-mental health support are critical components in mitigating the effects of employee burnout.

"We will need to look at awareness on mental health issues and provide tele-mental health, which should absolutely undoubtedly have both psychology and psychiatry so that people who need help are given help at the right time," shares Parikh. 

Parikh's insights serve as a reminder that promoting mental well-being in the workplace is not just a necessity but a fundamental human right. By adopting a comprehensive approach, leveraging tele-mental health, and raising awareness, organisations can create an environment where the mental health of their employees is nurtured and prioritised, resulting in a healthier and more productive workforce.