By Deborah Dzifa Makafui 

“I had a panic attack while I was at work, and it really threw me off. It interrupted my work and I had to take a break for a while to recover before I could get back to work again. During the panic attack, I felt like I couldn't breathe and my heart was racing. It was a really scary experience, and I was worried that my co-workers would judge me or think less of me for it." - Vanessa Philips (not real names) says.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five adults in the United States experience mental illness in a given year. However, the statistics are even more alarming for the Black community. In fact, Black people are 20% more likely to experience mental health issues. This highlights the urgent need for more awareness and support for mental health in the Black community, especially in the workplace where stress and burnout are common. Despite this, mental health is still a taboo topic in many workplaces, which can make it difficult for employees to seek the help they need.

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health, especially in the workplace. Prioritizing mental health means creating a work environment that not only values productivity but also values the well-being of its employees. It's about creating a space where employees can feel supported, understood, and empowered to take care of their mental health. In doing so, businesses can reduce absenteeism, increase employee retention, and create a more positive work culture.

As the World Health Organisation announces the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative to note that the pandemic called for more mental health awareness and the use of technological tools during the peak of the pandemic. Mental health became a top concern for both employers and employees. With remote work becoming the norm, many professionals are feeling the strain of isolation, burnout, and uncertainty. For Black professionals, the situation is even more complex, as systemic racism and discrimination can exacerbate mental health issues. Despite experiencing higher levels of distress, Black people are less likely to seek mental health treatment. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, only 31 percent of Black adults with mental illness receive treatment.

Co-founder of MedNova Clinic, Psychotherapist Edem Nukunu sheds light on the common mental health challenges people face, such as post-traumatic stress disorder that can trigger depression, anxiety, and restlessness. He notes that many patients come with relationship and financial issues that can manifest into depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. 

In response to these challenges, many companies are turning to technology to support their employees' mental health. From mindfulness apps to virtual therapy sessions, mental health tech is rapidly evolving to meet the needs of a changing workforce. 

A journalist, Stephanie Walter (not real names), is one of the many individuals who has found solace in using mental health apps, such as the Better Help app. She says the app has been very effective in addressing her mental health challenges but has expressed concerns about the cost. “The app is very effective but my concern is the prices, some of these apps are very expensive even though it’s extremely helpful,” she says.

While the app has been a helpful resource, the high prices can create a barrier for those who may not have the financial means to access it. This highlights the need for affordable and accessible mental health resources, particularly for individuals from marginalized communities who may already face additional financial burdens. By making mental health resources more affordable and accessible, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all individuals to prioritize their mental health and well-being.

While technology, such as mental health apps, can be helpful, Nukunu reiterates that cost can be a barrier for many. To address this, he suggests that people can make use of available technologies such as WhatsApp video calls and Google Meet, but he is concerned about the privacy of these platforms. It is crucial to explore and implement technology-based solutions that are accessible, affordable, and secure to ensure that everyone has access to the mental health resources they need.

Psychotherapist Edem Nukunu also stresses the importance of organizations creating a safe space for employees to prioritize their mental health. He recommends holding in-service mental health workshops, empowering HR to be more intentional about mental health, signing up therapists for employees, and forming support groups. In addition to these traditional methods, Nukunu also suggests utilizing technology to create a safe space for employees. While he acknowledges concerns about privacy with certain apps, he also emphasizes the effectiveness of virtual therapy sessions and encourages organizations to explore these options. Nukunu also notes the value of physical therapy in addressing mental health concerns, as a holistic approach can be highly effective in supporting overall well-being.

Overall, the use of mental health tech in the workplace has the potential to provide significant benefits for employees. It is more important than ever for companies to prioritize employee mental health and well-being. By leveraging the latest innovations in mental health tech, companies can provide employees with the support and resources they need to manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges regardless of race, background or access to resources they need to thrive in the workplace.