Why are concerted efforts by HR departments to prioritise mental health falling short?
Post-COVID there is more uncertainty around our health, our jobs, and our financial investments. In addition, our relationships are becoming more distant and prove inadequate for any real emotional support. This lack of security on a daily basis leads us to develop hypervigilance in a world that feels unsafe.
We also have mirror-neurons in our brains that are designed for social-engagement and safety. Have you ever been sitting with friends, and someone comes in laughing? Instantly lifting the mood even before you know what the laughter is about. What if the same person rushed into the room looking stricken? Instantly, everyone’s guard would be up, and they would prepare to face a threat. So even a naturally calm person, spending time around a multitude of anxious people, won’t take long before they feel anxious and become more hypervigilant.
“On average, a quarter of employees report experiencing burnout symptoms, according to a McKinsey Health Institute survey in 2022 of nearly 15,000 workers across 15 countries”. This data suggests that there would be widespread lack of wellbeing amongst the workforce and a correlated number of sick days affecting the economy across the board.