Breaking the Silence: Why Mental Health Remains a Taboo in the Corporate World and How Countries Are Responding

Mental health continues to be a taboo subject in many corporate settings despite increased global awareness and advocacy. In workplaces across the world, particularly in fast-paced and high-pressure environments, employees often hesitate to speak openly about their mental well-being due to fear of judgment, job insecurity, and the perception that seeking help is a sign of weakness. A culture of toxic productivity, where long hours and burnout are normalized, further discourages individuals from addressing their mental health needs. In many organizations, discussions around emotional well-being are still limited, and managers may lack the training or empathy required to support employees facing psychological challenges. This silence not only affects individual employees but also undermines workplace culture, productivity, and overall business performance.

In response to these issues, the United Kingdom has taken notable steps toward normalizing mental health in the workplace. One of the most impactful initiatives has been the widespread adoption of Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) training, which equips employees to recognize signs of mental distress and offer basic support. The legal framework in the UK, particularly under the Equality Act 2010, ensures protection for employees with mental health conditions and obligates employers to provide reasonable accommodations. National campaigns such as Time to Change and Mindful Employer have played an instrumental role in reducing stigma and encouraging open conversations. Companies like Deloitte, Barclays, and Unilever have embedded mental health into their organizational practices by offering internal support systems, wellness programs, and flexible work arrangements that support work-life balance.

In the Asian region, while cultural stigma around mental health remains significant, there are signs of progress. Countries like Singapore have adopted a structured approach through initiatives like the National Mental Health and Well-being Strategy, which encourages employers to implement mental health policies and provide access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). In India, major corporations such as Tata Consultancy Services and Infosys have introduced helplines, in-house counseling, and mental health awareness campaigns. Public efforts, including those led by the Live Love Laugh Foundation, are helping to shift public attitudes. Japan, facing high rates of work-related stress and overwork-related deaths (karoshi), has enacted reforms that promote mandatory paid leave and limit excessive overtime. Meanwhile, in countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, the movement is still emerging, often led by multinational companies that are beginning to introduce wellness programs in their offices.

Although the pace of change varies across regions, a global shift is gradually taking place. Leading organizations are beginning to understand that mental health is not just a personal issue but a strategic business imperative. Practices such as psychological safety training, access to digital mental health platforms, and mental health leave policies are becoming more common. As more companies recognize the link between mental well-being and employee performance, the conversation is moving beyond awareness to action. However, for mental health to truly lose its stigma in the workplace, it must be integrated into company culture, leadership practices, and strategic decision-making. Creating emotionally healthy workplaces is not only an ethical responsibility but also a foundation for long-term success in an increasingly complex world.