EY employee’s death prompts Big Four to relook work culture norms

The death of 26-year-old EY employee, Anna Sebastian Perayil, who lost her life to work pressure in July, has prompted Big Four firms to roll out several employee-friendly measures. Anna’s death sent shockwaves across India, triggering widespread debate about work-life balance in the private sector, with several former employees coming out in the open about their harrowing experiences at many popular companies.

Amid intensified backlash against exploitation in the private corporate sector, companies have been pushing at renewed focus on mental health and work-life balance, The Economic Times report.

Junior staff in Big Four consulting firms Deloitte, Ernst & Young (EY), PwC, and KPMG said they were experiencing unprecedented levels of consideration from their superiors. The measures include raising concerns about anxiety-inducing issues, and actively seeking employee feedback over work-pressure concerns.

• Business Standard, October 7, 2024

As seniors, let us take a closer look at workplace culture in India and lead by example – ensuring the necessary balance between work and rest.

Chosen through a global vote involving WFMH members, stakeholders, and supporters, this year’s theme, “It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace”, is a call to action that resonates worldwide.

With over 2000 participants from 116 countries, the selection process was truly inclusive, and the resulting theme reflects the awareness of an urgent need and profound opportunity.

Employed adults spend more time working than any other activity during their waking hours. In a myriad ways, and at its best, work can provide a livelihood and be a source of meaning, purpose, and joy. However, for too many people, work falls far short of its potential, failing to enhance our lives and detracting from our mental health and well-being in ways that result in excessive distress and mental ill health.

Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, are pervasive in workplaces globally, impacting productivity, attendance, and overall performance. When left untreated, the staggering economic cost is estimated at US$1 trillion annually by the WHO.

The COVID-19 pandemic pulled the curtain back on the dramatic need to address mental health issues in the workplace. Today, around the world, enlightened leaders strive to meet their duty of care, recognizing that addressing the mental health needs of their workforce is not only beneficial for individuals but also for healthy and high-performing organizations.

The data consistently demonstrate that prioritizing workplace mental health is good for people, companies, and communities.

World Mental Health Day 2024 will highlight various aspects of mental health at work, from workplace conditions and stress management to the importance of social inclusion and empowerment. The goal is clear: to champion mental health in the workplace and build best practices that create cultures where workers have the potential to contribute productively and thrive.

As WFMH President, I am excited about global collaboration and partnership with all stakeholders, including business corporations, to make a tangible difference. Altogether, let us prioritize mental health in the workplace and create a brighter future for all

Tsuyoshi Akiyama, WFMH President

For more go to: https://wmhdofficial.com/