Lyn Frans
In recent years, mental health has emerged as a significant concern affecting individuals across the globe. From stress and anxiety to more severe conditions like depression and bipolar disorder, the impact of mental health challenges is being felt by a growing number of people in our society.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health disorders affect one in four individuals worldwide, making it a leading cause of disability. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated these issues, with heightened levels of stress, isolation, and uncertainty contributing to a decline in mental well-being for many.
In October 2022, Tanzania held its first dialogue on Mental Health, in commemoration of the World Mental Health Day,which was under the theme”Make Mental Health and Wellbeing for All a Global Priority,”
The event graced by Minister for Health,Hon. Ummy Mwalimu, alongside Deputy Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, Hon. Mwanaidi Ali Hamisi; Chair of the Health and Social Services Parliamentary Committee, Hon. Stanslaus Nyongo; Acting WHO Representative, Dr. Zabulon Yoti, and UNICEF Deputy Representative, Mr. Ousmane Niang, highlighted key findings from the WHO World Mental Health Report, revealing that in 2019, 1 in 8 individuals globally experienced a mental disorder, totaling approximately 970 million people.
According to the report, 1 in 100 global deaths resulted from suicides, with over 50% occurring before the age of 50. Suicide ranks as the fourth leading cause of mortality among 15- to 29-year-olds. Factors such as childhood sexual abuse and bullying significantly contribute to the loss of active life due to mental health issues. Individuals with mental illnesses often face stigma and misinformation and may have a reduced lifespan of 10 to 20 years compared to the general population.
The WHO report outlines three essential paths to transform mental health services in countries.
The dialogue , urged the Tanzanian Government to prioritize the implementation of the Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan in the WHO African Region to ensure equitable access to mental health services. Stressing the importance of increasing government expenditure on relevant services and mobilizing resources from partners.
Although WHO reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the Government and key stakeholders to elevate the value of mental health, reshape negative environments impacting mental health, and ensure accessible mental health care for all Tanzanians, not much attention has been given to the situation.
It is expected that two years after this clarion call, government would somewhat initiate programme geared towards addressing mental health challenges at their various offices to assist employees both private and public rather than waiting to hold annual seminars to herald the DAY . Although the Country’s National Mental Health Dialogue is identifying key gaps and challenges requiring collective action to prioritize mental health and well-being for all across Tanzania, much more can be done .
Mental Health advocates and organizations globally are working tirelessly to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and provide support to those in need. Initiatives such as mental health hotlines, online counseling services, and community outreach programs have been established to offer assistance and resources to individuals struggling with their mental health. perhaps the country can consider initiating such moves to curtail the surge.
Mental health can have a significant impact on productivity in the workforce. Employees facing mental health challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, or burnout may experience difficulties concentrating, making decisions, and completing tasks efficiently. These challenges can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, presenteeism (being at work but not fully functioning), and higher staff turnover rates.
Employers are increasingly recognizing the importance of supporting employees’ mental health to maintain a productive workforce. Implementing mental health programs, providing access to counseling services, promoting work-life balance, offering flexibility, and creating a supportive work environment are some ways organizations can help employees manage their mental health and improve productivity.
By addressing mental health in the workplace and promoting a culture of well-being, employers can enhance employee engagement, satisfaction, and performance while reducing the negative impact of mental health issues on productivity.
It is crucial for communities to come together to prioritize mental health and well-being, destigmatize seeking help, and ensure that adequate resources are available for those in need. By fostering a culture of understanding and support, we can work towards creating a society where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health.
As we navigate these challenging times, let us remember that mental health matters and that together, we can make a positive difference in the lives of those affected by mental health challenges.