"A recent study in Europe showed that more absentee days were due to mental health issues than physical health concerns. Mental health’s financial hit to the bottom line is much higher than people realise."
"CEOs need the discipline and tenacity to make sure that mental health policies are set, and the programs are well integrated. When CEOs get involved, mental health becomes normalised and mainstreamed into the corporate culture."
"CEOs tell us they can see the impact of mental health programs, but they want a more science-backed approach to understanding the results. They want clarity about where progress is being made and where programs need to catch up. This has been hard to achieve until now."
"Young people may say they want more flexibility, but the results show it can harm their mental health when face-to-face interaction decreases. The data is mixed and conflicted."
Business leaders play a critical role in promoting a positive mental health culture; however, a lack of data makes it difficult to select and assess strategies, despite understanding its impact on productivity and business success. A recent Asia CEO Forum briefing was led by three members commended for their proactive approach to managing the challenge:
Jon Penrice, President Asia Pacific, Dow Chemical, which is among the industry leaders in identifying and managing health issues as part of the firm's Total Worker Health approach.
Gordon Watson, Chief Executive Officer of AXA Asia & Africa, and Founding Chair of the Shared Value Initiative Hong Kong, which helps private firms create measurable economic value while generating value for the community by improving social or environmental conditions.
Elisa Mallis, Vice President and Managing Director for the Center for Creative Leadership Asia Pacific, is a professional therapist and has provided mental health counseling, support, as well as helped develop programs for community mental health centers.
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