On the 10th of October every year, the globe comes together for a purpose: to raise awareness and catalyze change for mental health. This year, the theme set by the World Foundation of Mental Health, “Mental health is a universal human right,” rings especially true for Singapore’s Gen Z and Millennial workers. As the nation becomes an epitome of a bustling modern-day society, the younger workforce, which largely constitutes these generations, faces unprecedented challenges, both mental and emotional.
Understanding Gen Z and Millennial Challenges
Gen Z and Millennials, although distinct in their attributes, share common ground when it comes to facing the brunt of the evolving corporate culture, especially in hubs like Singapore. In the age of digitization, startups, and rapid innovation, these individuals often find themselves shouldering immense pressures. The 24/7 “always-on” culture, high expectations, coupled with personal aspirations, can sometimes blur the lines between work and personal life, making mental well-being a critical issue.
Such pressures aren’t exclusive to Singapore; they reverberate across corporations worldwide. As these generations occupy a growing proportion of the global workforce, addressing their unique mental health challenges becomes paramount not just for their well-being, but for the productivity and success of businesses at large.
Mental Health: A Universal Right and a Corporate Responsibility
When it comes to the corporate world, mental health isn’t merely a personal concern; it’s an organizational one. A workforce grappling with mental health issues can directly impact a company’s bottom line through decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and potentially higher turnover rates. However, beyond the economic factors, there’s a moral imperative. As emphasized this World Mental Health Day, recognizing and ensuring mental health is not a luxury or an afterthought—it’s a fundamental human right.
Starting the Conversation: Making it Relevant to the Younger Workforce
Talking about mental health, while essential, isn’t always straightforward. Here’s how Gen Z and Millennial workers can navigate these conversations, and how corporations can foster an environment conducive to such dialogues:
- Choosing the Right Person to Talk To: Especially in a professional setting, it’s vital for younger employees to identify mentors or colleagues they trust. Corporations can assist by establishing mentorship programs or ensuring managers are trained in mental health first aid.
- Finding the Ideal Setting: Engaging in outdoor team activities or fostering shared spaces in offices can provide informal, comfortable settings for such crucial conversations.
- Preparation and Understanding: For younger employees, it’s essential to understand that everyone may not grasp the gravity of their feelings. On the flip side, corporations need to invest in regular mental health training sessions to ensure a more empathetic workforce.
Helping Others Open Up:
- Creating a Distraction-Free Zone: Open office designs, while trendy, can sometimes be distracting. Companies should consider integrating quiet, private spaces for employees to converse freely.
- Active Listening and Engagement: For managers and peers alike, understanding the art of listening, truly listening, is crucial. This means being present, not just physically, but mentally during conversations.
- Support Systems: Employees should feel empowered to assist, whether it’s by being there for a chat or helping a colleague access professional help. Companies can amplify this by having a robust support system in place, from counseling services to flexible work schedules for those grappling with mental health issues.
A Call to Action for Singapore’s Corporates and Beyond
Singapore, with its dynamic corporate culture, stands in a unique position to lead by example. As we commemorate World Mental Wellness Day 2023, it’s a call for corporations, especially those dominated by the younger workforce, to not only understand but also integrate mental health strategies into their foundational principles. The ripple effect of such actions will undoubtedly impact the broader corporate world, setting a gold standard for ensuring that mental health, as a universal human right, is upheld and cherished.
In closing, as Singapore stands on the cusp of a new era driven by its younger generations, it’s high time we shifted our focus from mere economic growth to holistic well-being. As the narrative of World Mental Health Day emphasizes, mental well-being isn’t just personal; it’s universal. And it starts with a conversation.
