ABOUT 75% of Filipinos believe that disclosing mental health concerns in the workplace compromises professional opportunities, a survey found.

In a 2023 study cited by the International Labor Organization’s (ILO) latest report, titled The Psychosocial Working Environment, the Philippines ranked first among ASEAN countries with Japan, China, and South Korea in terms of thinking that stigma around mental health limits their career options.

The survey, which collected data from 13,000 workers, found substantial differences across countries: The Philippines (75%), Malaysia (71%), India (66%) and Singapore (64%) displayed the highest burdens while Japan, had the lowest (28%).

The ILO has identified mental health stigma as an obstacle to workplace prevention and support, noting that it discourages employees from reporting psychosocial hazards and seeking help.

According to the study, 60% of Filipinos believe that their mental health affects their productivity.

Despite the stigma and effect of mental health concerns in the workplace, ILO has mentioned the Philippines as one of the countries which have Occupational Safety and Health policies aimed at protecting the physical and mental well-being of workers.

ILO reported that over 840,000 people die every year due to psychosocial risks caused by long working hours, job insecurity, and workplace harassment.

The study released on April 22, revealed that the workplace psychosocial risks have been associated with cardiovascular diseases and mental health disorders.

“These risks also lead to nearly 45 million disability-adjusted life years lost each year,” the study read. “The combined impact of cardiovascular disease and mental disorders associated with psychosocial risk factors is estimated to result in 1.37 per cent of global gross domestic product lost annually.” — Kaela Patricia B. Gabriel

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