HPB launches three—in—one solution to boost workplace mental health

SINGAPORE: A survey has found that working Singaporeans scored 13 per cent lower than the general population in terms their mental well—being.

And in a separate survey, it was found that while 75 per cent of small— and medium—sized enterprises (SME) know the importance of workplace mental health, only 40 per cent are willing to invest in a programme to support it.

Both surveys were recently conducted by the Health Promotion Board (HPB).

CEO of HPB Ang Hak Seng says poor mental health, if not corrected, will extend beyond the workplace.

"If we allow poor mental health to continue, in the work, it will affect the person even at home," he said.

"When it affects the person at home, it actually perpetuates the situation. And when the person comes back to work again, and if the work has even more stress, you’ll see that it’s gonna spiral downwards."

In response, HPB has come up with a three—pronged Integrated Workplace Mental Health Solution.

For employees, there’ll be an online self—assessment survey, which measures levels of mental well—being, resilience, stress, depression and anxiety, and offers self—help solutions based on the scores.

For managers, a new Workplace Mental Health Investment Guide Book will help them implement mental health initiatives in the workplace.

And for organisations, the HPB Workplace Health Grant will provide a company up to S$5,000 for mental health promotion.

The money could be used to cover costs of counselling services, talks and workshops.

Minister of State for Health and Manpower Dr Amy Khor says the three—in—one solution, will benefit both the company and its employees in the long—run.

"By doing this and boosting the mental health of the workforce, creating a more positive and supportive environment, that will lead to a happier and healthier and more productive workforce," she said.

HPB hopes some 200 companies will adopt the programme by the end of the year.

— CNA/wm