Employers claim they are more willing than ever to assist workers who are struggling with mental health concerns. But do employees speak up more frequently?

Many people’s mental health was jeopardized during the pandemic. A lethal virus and an economic downturn that resulted in job and income loss are only two of the significant pressures that have occurred quickly and without any respite. Numerous stresses have been exacerbated by prolonged isolation, an increase in bereavement, limited access to mental healthcare, and seismic socio-political events. As a result, everyone has been feeling more fear and worry than usual. The consequences are significant. According to a seven-country poll conducted by the International Committee of the Red Cross in October 2020, 51% of respondents reported that the epidemic had harmed their mental health. Since COVID-19’s uncertainties and consequences continue to have an impact on our daily lives, researchers are continuously gathering information on the pandemic’s effects on mental health. Numerous businesses have taken deliberate action after realizing the severity of the stress. Some companies have expanded the alternatives available through employee assistance programs (EAPs), which give employees access to free services to address mental health disorders and drug misuse difficulties, and have added more perks focusing on psychological welfare.

However, the stigma around mental health concerns still exists in practically every aspect of life. Has there been a change in attitudes toward mental health difficulties in working environments as a result of the growth in employer awareness, support, and openness, along with employees’ readiness to speak up? Or, even in the wake of collective global trauma, are certain biases too deeply ingrained to be overcome?