The World Health Organization (WHO) is urging governments, employers, workers’ organizations, and other key stakeholders responsible for workers’ health and safety to join forces in promoting mental health in the workplace.
WHO made this call in the occasion of observing the International Mental Health Day, celebrated annually on October 10.
Themed ‘Mental Health at Work’ WHO emphasized that addressing mental health challenges at work requires the active involvement of employees, their representatives, and mental health professionals.
This inclusive approach, WHO emphasizes, will ensure that everyone has the opportunity to work in a safe and healthy environment.
In an effort to understand how this day is being marked in Rwanda and to assess the state of workplace mental health in the country, ICK News spoke with Dr. Jean Damascene Iyamuremye, the Director of Psychiatric care at the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC).
Dr. Iyamuremye confirmed that although no specific research has been conducted on mental health issues originating from work, there is little doubt that 20% of people experiencing mental health problems in Rwanda may have work-related causes.
He stated, “Even though the study focused on the entire population, it’s undeniable that some of those affected are workers.”
Overall, research conducted by RBC in 2018 indicates that 20% of Rwandans face mental health challenges.
Regarding the significance of International Mental Health Day in Rwanda, Dr. Iyamuremye explained that the day is observed to continue raising awareness about the importance of mental health, just as much as physical health.
He added that the efforts to promote mental well-being extend beyond the day itself and are part of ongoing initiatives.
Since 2023, the Ministry of Health and RBC, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labor, have introduced a dedicated program focusing on workers’ health.
Dr. Iyamuremye elaborated, “Indeed, there is a program encouraging employers to establish comprehensive measures to safeguard employees’ health at work, which includes mental health.”
He further emphasized, “When a worker identifies themselves as having mental health issues and seeks help, we assist them in resolving those issues or direct them to appropriate specialists.”
Dr. Iyamuremye concluded by urging employers to prioritize the well-being of their staff, stressing that a healthy worker is a productive one.
He added, “An employee facing mental health challenges is more likely to undermine the workplace rather than contribute to its success.”
This year, unlike in previous years, the International Mental Health Day was not marked with major public celebrations due to the ongoing Marburg virus outbreak in the country.
As per recent statistics, mental health-related issues cost the global economy over $1 trillion annually due to lost productivity, absenteeism, and high employee turnover.
The International Mental Health Day was first observed in 1992 and has since been an annual event promoting mental health awareness worldwide.
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