Latest News

Mental Health Issues Rise Among Corporate Employees in India, Especially Among Youth and Women


➡️ Click here to join our Whatsapp Group

A recent pan-India report on mental health in the workplace has highlighted concerning trends, particularly among young employees. The ‘State of Emotional Well-being Report 2024,’ released by Bengaluru-based employee assistance program provider 1to1help, reveals that 90% of corporate employees under 25 experienced symptoms of anxiety in 2024. This is a sharp contrast to 67% of employees over the age of 45 who also showed similar symptoms.

The report further highlights that women are more likely to experience anxiety than men, with hormonal and societal factors contributing to the disparity. The risk of suicide among employees has also increased, rising from 19% in 2023 to 22% in 2024.

The findings are reflected in the experiences of young professionals. A 21-year-old BCom graduate, who recently resigned from his job at a multinational accounting firm after just two months, cited job pressure as the main reason. “I was expected to work over 12 hours every day right from the start. I was living alone in Bengaluru and didn’t have a support system. I started developing severe anxiety,” he shared. He has since returned to his hometown in Kerala.

Pallavi, 23, a content strategist at a startup, also struggles with anxiety since starting her new role in September. “My previous job was remote and entry-level. Now, I’m in a managerial role, responsible for others, and I need to be in the office five days a week, plus alternate Saturdays. The constant socializing is exhausting and often leads to anxiety,” she explained.

Women in the workplace face additional pressures. Melissa T, a 23-year-old marketing consultant, shared how the patriarchal nature of workplaces contributes to anxiety. “When a woman asks people to meet deadlines, she’s seen as bossy. But if a man does the same, it’s considered in the company’s best interest,” she said. She added that women, even in senior positions, are often expected to act subserviently. “If a younger woman is authoritative, her actions are seen as offensive.”

Experts believe that workplace anxiety is not uncommon, especially during major life transitions. Consultant clinical psychologist Muniswamy K S explained that it takes at least five years to fully adapt to significant changes, such as a new job. He stressed the importance of a strong support system both at home and work. “Younger employees often face harassment and bullying from senior colleagues, which can exacerbate anxiety,” he said.

Josily Achamma Mathew, a psychologist specializing in social and organizational psychology, believes that many corporate firms are not taking mental health seriously. “During a recent work-life balance session, the management told me to convey that work-life balance isn’t possible and that meeting deadlines is the priority. Concepts like ‘Wellness Wednesday’ are often just for show. This attitude needs to change,” she emphasized.

The report underscores the urgent need for companies to address mental health issues in the workplace, particularly as anxiety and stress levels continue to rise among employees, especially the younger workforce and women.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *