October 10th is globally observed as the World Mental Health Day. It is an international initiative to raise awareness about mental health and its impact on individuals and communities. This year’s theme, “Mental Health at Work,” resonates deeply with the Catholic Social Teachings (CST), on the dignity of work and the importance of caring for the whole person – body, mind, and spirit.
The Catholic Perspective:
Pope Leo XIII in his encyclical, Rerum Novarum (1891), emphasized the importance of protecting workers’ rights and promoting their well-being. He wrote, “When reason and nature urge us to dedicate ourselves to our work, we must also remember that our toil is not solely for material gain, but also for the development of our faculties and our moral growth” (Rerum Novarum, 34).
Similarly, Pope Francis, in his apostolic exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium (2013), highlighted the need to care for the mental health of workers: “We are called to care for the vulnerable and to recognize the sacred dignity of every human life, including those struggling with mental health issues” (Evangelii Gaudium, 210).
Therefore, workplace stress, long hours, abusive work relationships and lack of support can significantly affect mental wellbeing.
Thoughts from Catholic Social Teachings (CST):
In response, this social concern, the church through the CST offer valuable principles for promoting mental wellbeing in the workplace:
1. Dignity of Work: Recognize the inherent dignity of work and the worker, ensuring fair compensation, safe working conditions, and opportunities for growth (Laborem Exercens, 1981).
2. Solidarity: Foster a supportive work environment, encouraging collaboration, empathy, and mutual respect (Sollicitudo Rei Socialis, 1987).
3. Subsidiarity: Empower workers to take ownership of their mental health, providing access to resources and support (Quadragesimo Anno, 1931).
Canon Law and Mental Health:
The ecclesiastical law – the Church’s Canon Law unequivocally, emphasizes the importance of caring for the mental health of clergy and laity. “Pastors of souls are to take care to provide for the mental health of their flock, and to ensure that those who are struggling with mental health issues receive appropriate care and support” (Canon 877).
Recommendations and Conclusion:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 22% of workers experience work-related stress, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
With this in mind, the church’s model of an ideal workplace and environment, should be encouraged. Value for the workers welfare should take pre-eminence over profits and monetary gains.
Employers of Labour should implement stress management programs, employee assistance services, and mental health training. They should encourage open discussions about mental health, model healthy behaviors, and provide needed resources. Also, events, workshops, and support groups to promote mental wellbeing should be organized.
Finally, as we commemorate World Mental Health Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to promoting mental wellbeing in the workplace. Together, we can create a supportive environment that values the dignity and worth of every individual.
