Workplace mental health issues cost M'sia RM14.46bil in 2018 alone, says psychiatrist

PETALING JAYA: Mental health issues are taking a significant toll on the Malaysian economy, with workplace stress, job insecurity, and burnout contributing to this growing crisis, said a psychiatrist.

Consultant psychiatrist Prof Datuk Dr Andrew Mohanraj said in 2018 alone, Malaysia lost RM14.46bil in productivity due to mental health-related challenges in the workplace, equivalent to 1% of the country's gross domestic product (GDP).

The Selangor Mental Health Association president said that globally, the economic burden is even greater, with depression and anxiety in the workplace costing the global economy an estimated US$1trillion in the same year.

Dr Andrew stressed the urgency of addressing these issues, highlighting that one in three Malaysians experiences mental health challenges, a situation exacerbated by the pressures of modern work life.

“These figures are drawn from recent studies, including the National Health and Morbidity Survey of 2019, which noted a rise in mental health problems across the nation.

“With over one million Malaysian adults diagnosed with depression, the burden on both individuals and the economy is becoming impossible to ignore,” said Dr Andrew, who is also president of the Malaysian Mental Health Association.

He said this during the Women’s Institute of Management (WIM) Mental Health Forum 2024 on Saturday (Oct 12). Also present were Raja Permaisuri of Perak Tuanku Zara Salim.

Dr Andrew, who is a World Federation for Mental Health board member, further emphasised the global dimension of the issue, pointing out that depression is now the leading cause of disability worldwide, overtaking cardiovascular diseases.

He also warned that the economic cost of mental health challenges could rise even further if steps are not taken to address the situation.

Employers, according to Dr Andrew, play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of workplace-induced mental health issues.

To combat the loss of productivity, businesses must prioritise mental health by creating a supportive environment for employees.

He advises that employers evaluate and review their current mental health policies, ensuring they are comprehensive and up to date.

"A supportive workplace that fosters open communication, provides mental health services, and allows employees some flexibility is key to addressing these challenges," he said.

He also highlighted the importance of supervisors and managers being trained to detect early warning signs of mental health problems, such as absenteeism, irritability, and withdrawal from social interactions.

These early indicators, if addressed promptly, can prevent further deterioration of an employee's mental health, he added.

The issue, Dr Andrew noted, goes beyond simply providing mental health services.

“It is also about creating a culture where employees feel comfortable seeking help and participating in shaping workplace policies.”

Many employees, he said, may not be suited to their roles or may overstate their abilities, which can contribute to mental health deterioration.

Poor communication, unclear organisational goals, and a lack of involvement in decision-making can further aggravate stress levels.

Flexible working hours, mental health services as part of company health policies, and the use of mental health apps are all effective tools that employers can introduce to support their staff, he said.

Dr Andrew also called for increased participation of employees in shaping relevant policies to ensure they are both practical and sensitive to the needs of the workforce.