On this International Mental Health Day 2024, we come together to recognize the complex relationship between mental health and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) and raise awareness of the urgent need for compassionate recovery support.

This year’s theme is ‘It’s time to prioritize mental health in the workplace’. With 60% of the world’s population working[1] and for an average of between 40-50 hours a week, the workplace and the time we spend there, affects a significant proportion of humanity. This makes it all the more important to create a working environment that supports employees and gives them the opportunity to grow as an individual and within their profession, rather than being a source of immense stress, anxiety and mental health problems. A study by the American Psychological Association found that workplaces with strong mental health policies saw a 25% reduction in employees reporting psychological distress.[2] On the other side, research shows that workplaces that prioritize mental health experience increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and improved employee morale[3], making care for one’s employees not only a social responsibility but a lucrative investment.

Moreover, the link between SUD and mental health is profound. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, nearly 50% of individuals diagnosed with a mental illness also struggle with substance use[4]. SUD often stems from untreated mental health conditions, trauma, or chronic stress. A supportive workplace can facilitate recovery for individuals facing these challenges. Providing comprehensive health insurance, employee training programs, and drug-free social events can serve as vital resources. The stigma surrounding both mental health and substance use, including at the workplace, often discourages people from seeking help and keeps them trapped in a cycle of shame and isolation. A report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicated that stigma leads to underutilization of necessary services, with only about 30.5% of individuals with SUD receiving treatment.[5] Thus, enhancing workplace support for recovery can enable individuals to reintegrate into the labour market while receiving the help they need.

Therefore, we call for more accessible mental health services, holistic addiction treatment programs, recovery-friendly workplaces, and a renewed and informed focus on prevention and early intervention. Mental health, substance abuse treatment, and recovery support systems should be integrated to provide comprehensive support that addresses the underlying causes of addiction and utilise the workplace to create inclusive and supportive environments.

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[1] World Health Organization. (2024). Mental health at work

[2] American Psychological Association. (2022). The role of workplace mental health programs

[3] World Health Organization. (2024). Mental health at work

[4] National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2023). Co-occurring disorders

[5] Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2022). National Survey on Drug Use and Health