Employers claim that they are more eager than ever to help employees who are dealing with mental health issues. But do workers speak up more often?

Throughout the pandemic, many people’s mental health was in danger. The only two severe pressures that have occurred swiftly and without any relief are a deadly virus and an economic slump that caused job and income losses. Everyone has been experiencing higher levels of dread and worry than usual due to a number of stresses that have been made worse by prolonged isolation, an increase in loss, limited access to mental healthcare, and seismic socio-political events. The repercussions are evident. Several companies have made conscious decisions as a result of realizing how serious the stress is. Some businesses have increased the benefits by concentrating on psychological well-being and broadening the options provided through employee assistance programs (EAPs), which provide access to free services to address mental health illnesses and drug abuse difficulties.

However, there is still a stigma attached to mental health issues in almost every sphere of life. Has there been a shift in how people view mental health issues in the workplace as a result of increased company openness, support, and knowledge as well as employees’ willingness to speak up? Or are some biases too ingrained to be eradicated even in the wake of collective global trauma?