This year’s World Mental Health Day observed on October 10 focuses on awareness of the connection between people’s mental wellbeing and the workplace. This year’s theme is "Mental Health at Work.”

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), global effort encourages education, awareness, and advocacy to combat the stigma surrounding mental health issues, especially in work environments.

According to the 2023 State of Mental Health at Work survey by the Mental Health Hub, a mental health clinic based in Rwanda, more than 80 per cent of employees in East Africa experience moderate to extreme stress.

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About 37.8 per cent of the survey respondents reported high or extreme stress, with junior professionals experiencing higher stress levels (86.3%) compared to executives (82.4%).

The gender disparity in stress levels was also investigated, with 83.2 per cent of women reporting higher levels of stress, compared to 76.7 per cent of men.

In Rwanda, the same survey showed that three out of four employees experienced moderate to extreme stress in 2021, with 34 per cent identifying their stress levels as high or extreme.

The survey identifies heavy workloads, long working hours, and the fear of job loss as major factors contributing to stress and other mental disorders at work places.

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The survey also points to a correlation between employer-provided wellbeing services and a reduction in stress levels. Respondents working in companies offering some form of mental health or wellbeing services report lower stress levels at 76 per cent, compared to 85 per cent among those whose employers provide no support.

Francoise Uzamukunda, the Country Director of the Mental Health Hub, highlighted the impact of heavy workload on employees’ mental wellbeing.

"If an employee is expected to work seven hours a day but has a workload that cannot be completed within that time, it feels overwhelming and often forces them to put in extra hours, and this leads to blurred boundaries between professional responsibilities and personal time, often resulting in stress,” said Uzamukunda.

She said that employees sometimes neglect their well-being because they are so focused on completing tasks.

"Work-life balance is not just about being at home or at work, it is about maintaining multiple aspects of well-being,” she said.

"Well-being encompasses not only family and work relationships but also social, spiritual, and psychological dimensions.

"When one area of life takes up most of a person’s energy, they feel drained, which affects their mental health. It starts with regular fatigue but, if ignored, can lead to chronic fatigue and eventually burnout,” Uzamukunda said.

How should employers foster mental wellbeing?

Uzamukunda stressed employers and managers have a role to play in making sure that the employees are not overloaded.

"If employers want to foster a healthy workplace, they need to create environments that support employees' mental health,” she said.

"Clearly defined responsibilities and a supportive atmosphere that acknowledges personal challenges are essential. For instance, if a parent arrives late due to a sick child, they should not feel judged but supported, as life happens.”

If employees need to see a psychologist, they should not fear being labeled as unfit for the job, she said.

"Moreover, motivation plays a significant role in maintaining a healthy workplace. Employers should not only focus on productivity but also actively encourage employee wellness initiatives. Organizing stress management workshops or team-building activities can help alleviate pressure and foster a sense of community,” Uzamukunda said.

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‘Personal efforts also matter’

Uzamukunda said an employee also had an equally important role to play in making sure that their mental health is well-maintained.

"Personal efforts also matter significantly,” she said. "Everyone needs to recognize the importance of their well-being and actively participate in workplace initiatives. If their workplace offers a free Friday afternoon for sports, they should take advantage of it rather than using the time for errands or shopping,” said Uzamukunda.

Also, effective communication with colleagues can prevent unnecessary conflicts and emotional drain, she said.

Uzamukunda also said that balancing work with personal life is crucial. Friends and hobbies also need attention, she noted. People should not feel guilty for leaving the office a little bit early as everyone has a life outside of work that they need to live.

How do HR managers help?

Steven Murenzi, the founder of People Matters Rwanda, initiative of prioritizing employees’ mental wellbeing through human resources (HR) management, highlighted the role of HR managers in improving workplaces for employees.

"Our goal is to improve the well-being of our employees, ensuring they feel safe, valued, and well-equipped. If we focus on both the physical and mental wellbeing of our staff, their productivity will naturally improve,” said Murenzi.

"HR professionals need to recognize that individual employees have unique needs, depending on factors like gender, age, and level of education. It is essential to address these needs on an individual level,” he explained.

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HR manager should also understand what the organization needs in terms of human resources, whether it is creating a better working environment with ergonomic chairs, providing training, or ensuring there is enough light in the office,” Murenzi noted...

"Addressing these issues makes the workplace smarter, more comfortable and safer for workers,” he said.

He also emphasized that there is also need to think about the employee’s supporting system, including their families, in order to optimize performance at work.