Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has issued a powerful call to action, encouraging individuals not to remain silent about their mental health challenges.
“If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t stay silent. It’s OK to talk about it and seek help,” Dr. Tedros emphasized in a message to workers worldwide.
With nearly 60% of the global population engaged in work, mental health in the workplace has become a critical issue. The WHO, in partnership with global organizations, is raising awareness about the importance of addressing mental health concerns in professional environments. Workplaces that foster healthy and supportive conditions can act as protective factors for mental health, but many still pose significant risks that can negatively affect workers’ well-being.
Work-related stressors—such as excessive workloads, unsafe conditions, job insecurity, and workplace discrimination—are increasingly common. These factors can lead to burnout, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, affecting both the quality of life and productivity of employees. The WHO stresses that no one should suffer in silence and that talking about mental health challenges is a key step toward recovery and inclusion in the workplace.
Dr. Tedros’s message highlights the need for governments, employers, and workers’ organizations to come together to create work environments where mental health is prioritized. By investing in mental health initiatives, workplaces can become safer spaces that promote well-being, reduce stigma, and help employees thrive.
Building a Mentally Healthy Workplace
The WHO’s focus on mental health in the workplace extends to all sectors. With more than half of the global workforce employed in the informal economy—where protections are often lacking—the need for safe and supportive working conditions is urgent. For people living with mental health conditions, decent work can be a lifeline, contributing to recovery, inclusion, and social functioning.
To prevent work-related mental health conditions, the WHO recommends that organizations adopt policies and interventions that address psychosocial risks. Flexible working arrangements, violence prevention frameworks, and manager training for mental health awareness are key strategies that can significantly improve the workplace environment.
Supporting Workers with Mental Health Conditions
The WHO also emphasizes the importance of reasonable accommodations for employees with mental health conditions. Simple steps like offering flexible hours, providing additional time to complete tasks, and facilitating supportive check-ins with supervisors can make a significant difference. Moreover, return-to-work programs, designed to help employees transition back to work after mental health-related absences, are vital in ensuring their continued success and well-being.
Dr. Tedros’s call to action comes at a time when global crises, including economic recessions and health emergencies, have amplified mental health challenges in the workplace. Many workers face the dual burden of professional and personal stress, highlighting the need for collective efforts to address mental health concerns.
Action for a Healthier Future
To build a mentally healthy future, the WHO is advocating for collaboration between all stakeholders—governments, employers, workers, and mental health professionals. This means not only protecting mental health but actively promoting it through policies, resources, and supportive environments. By breaking the silence and encouraging open discussions about mental health, we can create a world where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered at work.
The WHO’s message this World Mental Health Day is clear: it’s time to take action, support mental health, and ensure that no one suffers in silence.
