Do not take care of your employees’ mental health, their mental health is not important!

Who said that supporting employee mental health is beneficial for both employees and organizations? Mental health is a personal issue, and the role of an employer is limited to providing a healthy professional environment to achieve profit, growth and operational efficiency, rather than managing the employees’ well-being. In conclusion mental health is nice-to-have that costs the organization additional cost FOR NOTHING.

Well, this is WRONG!!

Poor mental health in employees can decrease concentration and productivity while increasing mistakes, accidents, and turnover. This not only harms the company’s reputation but also creates a toxic work environment that reduces team morale and engagement. In short, an employee’s mental health affects everyone in the company.

Nevertheless, everyone in the workplace contributes to a mentally healthy environment. When everyone does their part, it leads to a healthier, more understanding, and kinder workplace.

1. Employers / Leaders
They set the tone, so it’s important they show it’s okay to talk about mental health. They can lead by example—take breaks, respect work-life balance, and show that mental health matters. It’s also their role to create fair policies like flexible hours, mental health days, and zero tolerance for bullying. Investing in tools like wellness apps or counseling support can really make a difference. Most importantly, they should build a culture where people feel safe and supported.

2. HR Teams:
HR plays a key role in making support accessible. That means making sure everyone knows where to turn if they need help—whether that’s therapy, coaching, or wellness programs. Training managers to spot and handle mental health issues helps too. HR should treat all concerns with empathy and care and promote awareness through events or wellness activities.

3. Managers / Supervisors
Managers are on the front line, so they should check in regularly and make time for honest conversations. If someone seems stressed or burned out, they need to step in supportively. Encouraging time off, being flexible, and showing understanding can go a long way in helping their team feel balanced and valued.

4. Employees
Everyone has a part to play. Employees should look after themselves, set healthy limits, and not hesitate to ask for help. Supporting each other, speaking up early when something feels off, and being part of wellness efforts help create a more open and caring workplace for everyone.

The primary responsibility for spreading awareness about mental health lies with the employer. That’s why providing support, resourcing, and an open environment is essential. Helping everyone understand that mental health is just as important as physical health to eliminate the negative vibes, stereotypes and misconceptions about mental health issues at work. Addressing mental health stigma at work means creating a safe and supportive environment where people feel comfortable talking about how they’re feeling.

Because mental health influences how we think, feel, and act, impacting our relationships, work, and overall quality of life; many health insurance plans now include benefits like therapy, counseling, psychiatric care, and treatment for mental illnesses. Some plans also offer Employee Assistance Programs that provide short-term counseling and other mental health resources.

When choosing an insurance plan, it’s important to work with a broker who can explain the benefits and help you select a plan that covers mental health.

In the Middle East, mental health coverage is getting better but is still not as comprehensive as in Western countries. Regulations differ by country:

  • In the United Arab Emirates, there are laws to promote mental well-being, but no specific regulations require mental health insurance coverage.
  • In Saudi Arabia, mental health services are available, but private insurance remains unregulated.
  • In Egypt, private insurance is limited.
  • In Jordan and Lebanon, the coverage depends on the specific plan and provider.

Given the many challenges in the region, such as wars and financial instability, it is crucial to set up regulations that prioritize mental health in both the private and public sectors. This will help create healthier companies and, ultimately, healthier countries.

Who knows what positive changes this could bring for the region? Are you still saying No to the mental health of your employees?