Recognizing Mental Health As A Right, Not A Luxury

In today’s evolving workplace, inclusive leadership isn’t just about diversity in hiring—it’s about creating environments where everyone can thrive, both mentally and physically. Because let’s face it, mental health is a human right sometimes treated like a luxury.

World Mental Health Day is Oct.10, giving inclusive leaders crucial space to reflect on the importance of mental health. If I can be so bold, I suggest a reframe of mental health from a luxury to a fundamental human right. Too often, mental health support is relegated to the background, viewed as an optional benefit rather than a necessity for a thriving society.

Mental Health In The Workplace: A Fundamental Right

Workplaces play a pivotal role in shaping mental health outcomes. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that poor mental health costs the global economy approximately $1 trillion annually in lost productivity. Burnout is real and stress is prevalent, with a Gallup study revealing that 57 percent of employees experience stress daily at work.

Organizations that prioritize mental health don’t have to rely solely on goodwill benefits; they also stand to gain financially. A Deloitte study showed that companies investing in mental health see a return of $4 for every $1 spent, thanks to reduced absenteeism, higher morale and increased retention rates.

Yet so few organizations invest in the resources required to improve the stress levels of their employees. A 2023 report from Mental Health America indicates that 76 percent of U.S. workers desire mental health prioritization from their employers, however only 28 percent of companies offered sufficient resources. This gap illustrates the pressing need for organizations to view mental health support as a fundamental right for all employees.

Addressing Access And Equity In Mental Health Care

I would be remiss to not mention or acknowledge barriers created by marginalization. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), only 8.6 percent of Black Americans and 7.3 percent of Latinx adults receive the mental health services they need, compared with 18 percent of non-Hispanic white adults. This stark disparity underscores the urgent need for equitable access to mental health resources as a central force behind equity and inclusion leadership.

Financial barriers further compound this issue. A remarkable 45 percent of people at the cultural margins cite affordability as the primary reason for not seeking mental health services. Many mental health treatments, such as ongoing therapy and medication, can be prohibitively expensive, particularly when insurance coverage is limited or unavailable.

The Role Of Leadership in Mental Health Advocacy

To foster a healthier workplace, leaders don’t have to implement major changes overnight. Instead, they can start with small, practical actions that promote a balanced approach to mental health for themselves and their teams. Here are some ways inclusive leaders can advocate for mental health:

  1. Schedule meetings for 25 or 55 minutes: Build short breaks into the day by scheduling meetings that end a few minutes early. This small shift provides breathing room for everyone to refresh and reset between tasks.
  2. Journal for 15 minutes: Set aside time each day to reflect and process emotions. This simple act of mindfulness can reduce stress and provide clarity.
  3. Schedule an appointment with a therapist: Normalizing therapy for personal growth and support shows employees that seeking professional help is not a weakness, but a tool for mental wellness.
  4. Educate yourself about mental health: Understanding mental health issues helps reduce stigma. Leaders can take time to learn about common mental health conditions and how to offer support in the workplace.
  5. Connect with friends, family and colleagues (and set your phone aside!): Human connection is essential for mental health. Encourage team members to take real breaks, disconnect from technology and be present in their relationships.
  6. Take a walk in nature or around your neighborhood: A change of scenery and movement can do wonders for the mind. Leaders can model the importance of taking regular breaks and engaging with nature as part of self-care.
  7. Set work boundaries: Lead by example when it comes to work-life balance. Simple steps like not checking emails on weekends or evenings can help reset expectations and show that mental health matters outside work hours.

When leaders adopt these practices, they’re not only taking care of themselves but also demonstrating to their teams that mental health is a priority. A leader’s commitment to their own well-being encourages others to follow suit, resulting in a workplace culture that values and supports mental health as a fundamental part of success.

Advocating For Mental Health As A Human Right

As we commemorate World Mental Health Day, let us strive to reframe mental health from being viewed as a luxury to being recognized as a basic human right. The need for accessible, equitable mental health resources is urgent, and it’s time for organizations and leaders to take meaningful action. By prioritizing mental health for all, we not only uplift individuals but also strengthen our communities and workplaces.

In the spirit of this day, let’s advocate for a future where mental health support is an integral part of our societal framework, ensuring that everyone can thrive without stigma or barriers.

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