Back to Listing PageContact Info
INDIA: #5th Floor, Cowrks, RMZ infinity Bangalore 560033
+91 95137 69433 / +91 7705886633
INDIA: #5th Floor, Cowrks, RMZ infinity Bangalore 560033
+91 95137 69433 / +91 7705886633
Tackling Men’s Mental Health Stigma in Corporate India
As workplaces evolve, the conversation around mental health has gained momentum. Yet, men’s mental health remains a topic shrouded in stigma, particularly in Indian corporate environments. Cultural expectations often discourage men from showing vulnerability, perpetuating silence around their struggles.
This International Men’s Day (November 19, 2024), let’s address the elephant in the room: how can organizations effectively tackle men’s mental health challenges and create safe, supportive work environments?
Why Men’s Mental Health is a Corporate Priority
1. The Burden of Expectations
Indian society often conditions men to be providers, suppress emotions, and “man up” during hardships. This culture of silence results in unaddressed mental health challenges, with 77% of working Indian men reporting workplace stress (LinkedIn, 2023).
2. The Cost of Ignoring the Issue
Ignoring men’s mental health doesn’t just affect employees—it impacts the bottom line. Studies show that mental health issues can lead to 21% lower productivity, increased absenteeism, and higher attrition rates.
3. Workplaces as Safe Spaces
Corporates have the power to normalize discussions on men’s mental health. A supportive work culture not only fosters employee loyalty but also boosts overall team morale.
Fact: In India, less than 10% of workplaces offer structured mental health support (NIMHANS, 2023). Are you one of them?
Common Challenges Men Face at Work
1. Burnout from Overwork
Men often feel the pressure to over-perform, leading to burnout. This is particularly common in industries like IT and finance, where 81% of employees report working overtime (TimesJobs, 2024).
2. Fear of Vulnerability
Men hesitate to share personal struggles, fearing it may be perceived as weakness, impacting their career growth.
3. Lack of Support Systems
While many companies offer wellness programs, they often focus on generic stress management rather than tailored support for men.
How Companies Can Break the Stigma
1. Foster a Culture of Openness
Normalize mental health discussions by organizing seminars and campaigns. Hearing male leaders talk openly about their experiences can inspire others to seek help.
2. Provide Professional Support
Invest in mental health resources, such as:
3. Redesign Work Policies
4. Engage Employees in Awareness Programs
Conduct interactive sessions focusing on issues like stress, parenting, financial anxiety, and emotional intelligence.
Learn about WHO’s mental health strategies
Practical Steps for Male Employees to Manage Mental Health
1. Identify the Triggers
Encourage men to reflect on stressors and seek proactive solutions, whether it’s workload management or discussing issues with a supervisor.
2. Build Peer Support Groups
Promote informal groups where male employees can share experiences and strategies without fear of judgment.
3. Promote Physical Wellness
Physical activity is a proven stress-buster. Companies can organize yoga sessions, gym memberships, or walking challenges to support holistic wellness.
Success Stories: Indian Companies Leading the Change
1. Infosys’ Mental Health Initiative
Infosys offers free counseling sessions and awareness programs targeting stress and burnout.
2. Tata Steel’s Wellness Approach
Tata Steel runs a 24×7 mental health helpline and regular health check-ups for employees.
3. Wipro’s Employee Assistance Program
Wipro integrates professional counseling services into its wellness programs, promoting emotional well-being.
4. MyFitnessWallet’s CallThree App
CallThree integrates professional counseling services into organization’s wellness programs, promoting emotional well-being.
Long-Term Benefits of Addressing Men’s Mental Health
1. Increased Productivity
Mental health support leads to happier, more focused employees. Studies show that investing in wellness yields a 400% ROI through increased output and reduced absenteeism.
2. Reduced Turnover
Employees who feel valued and supported are more likely to stay, reducing recruitment costs.
3. Enhanced Team Cohesion
A supportive work environment fosters collaboration and mutual respect, benefiting the organization as a whole.
Celebrating International Men’s Day 2024 in Your Office
1. Organize an Open Forum
Facilitate an informal discussion where male employees can voice concerns and share experiences without judgment. Our CallThree app provides a judgement-free non penalizing platform for this.
2. Conduct Wellness Challenges
Plan activities like mindfulness sessions, fitness contests, or journaling challenges tailored to men’s mental and physical health.
3. Recognize Male Role Models
Celebrate employees who promote wellness, inclusivity, and empathy, creating positive role models for others.
This write-up sheds light on realistic pain points, such as stress and stigma, offering actionable solutions tailored to Indian workplaces. Tackling men’s mental health is no longer optional—it’s essential for creating thriving, inclusive organizations.
Importance of Occupational Therapy in Corporate Wellness Programs
In today’s fast-paced corporate environment, employee wellness is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Companies worldwide are increasingly recognizing the importance of prioritizing employee well-being to boost productivity, reduce turnover, and create a healthier workplace culture. One often overlooked but incredibly impactful tool in corporate wellness programs is Occupational Therapy (OT). Occupational therapy focuses on helping employees maintain their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, making it a crucial component in a comprehensive corporate wellness strategy. In this blog, we’ll explore why occupational therapy matters in corporate wellness programs, how it can benefit both employees and employers, and why it should be a cornerstone of your company’s health initiatives. What is Occupational Therapy? Occupational therapy is a healthcare profession that helps individuals engage in meaningful activities (occupations) to enhance their health and well-being. Traditionally, it has been used in hospitals and rehabilitation centers to assist people recovering from illness or injury. However, its application in the corporate world is gaining traction as companies recognize the benefits of offering holistic support to their employees. Occupational therapists focus on: Physical health: Helping employees with posture, ergonomics, and mobility. Mental health: Supporting stress management, mental well-being, and emotional resilience. Work-life balance: Assisting employees in creating routines that promote balance and productivity. Why Occupational Therapy is Crucial in Corporate Wellness Programs 1. Boosts Employee Productivity Employees who suffer from physical or mental health challenges are less productive. According to a study by the American Institute of Stress, workplace stress costs U.S. companies an estimated $300…