Duduzile Nyathi
In many African workplaces, mental health remains a taboo topic, often dismissed as a sign of weakness. Yet, as Blessing Lulwama Masola, founder of the Blessing Foundation, recently highlighted, neglecting mental well-being can lead to significant productivity losses and employee burnout.
Her compelling presentation in a Matebeleland Pulse WhatsApp group sparked crucial discussions about the need for a cultural shift in how mental health is perceived in professional environments.
Lulwama, who also collaborates with Lyra and Serenity for Wellness in South Africa, pointed out that while mental health conversations have gained traction globally, many African cultures still view it as foreign or irrelevant. “Work is seen as a place for production, and anyone who expresses mental health struggles is often dismissed as weak,” she stated, underscoring the stigma that prevents open dialogue.
To combat this, Lulwama called on organisations to foster environments where employees can discuss mental health openly and without fear of judgment. “Employees need to feel empowered to discuss their mental well-being,” she emphasised, urging companies to create mental health policies akin to those for physical health. “Our mental health matters, and companies need to understand that a healthy mind is essential for a productive workforce,” she concluded.
She outlined practical strategies for improving mental well-being, including taking regular breaks, establishing boundaries between work and personal life, and maintaining a healthy diet. “Our minds need care too,” Lulwama stressed, linking mental wellness directly to workplace productivity.
Beyond individual actions, she advocated for systemic changes within organizations and communities. “Every organization should have a mental health policy that includes provisions for support and education,” she recommended. Lulwama also called for increased access to mental health services, grassroots public health initiatives, and a comprehensive reform of healthcare systems to integrate mental health care.
As awareness of these issues grows, the urgent call for change in how mental health is prioritised in African workplaces becomes increasingly clear. By embracing mental well-being as a vital component of employee care, organizations can foster healthier, more productive work environments.
