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Stigma in the workplace

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According to the International Labour Organization's (ILO) benchmark report on mental health (2017) , stigma and discrimination are among the most significant challenges to mental health. Furthermore, although several disorders are stigmatized and discriminated against, mental disorders rank second only to HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). This report states that:

  • Although the stigma surrounding mental health affects many aspects of a person's life, it is in the workplace where it has the most significant impact and is experienced in all aspects of the employment process.
  • Many employers believe that people with mental health problems are worse at their jobs or incompetent.
  • Compared to workers with a physical problem or condition, workers returning to work after a leave of absence due to mental health problems are more likely to be questioned, undervalued, discriminated against, or even, in some cases, fired.

On the other hand, according to a report by Obertament on mental health and stigma in the workplace in Catalonia, around 40% of workers consider their current mental health to be poor or fair. The report also explains that 90% of people who have experienced a mental health problem have not felt able to talk about it openly at work, making it essential to combat stigma and raise awareness about mental health in the workplace.

Due to a lack of access to employment and other income-generating opportunities, people with mental health problems are at greater risk of falling into poverty.

A large number of companies have begun to address the mental health of their employees , aware of the strategic importance it can have for the overall functioning of all work teams. To this end, companies have different programs and resources available to address stigma in the workplace ( The Working Well Toolkit - APA Center for Workplace Mental Health, 2026 ; ILO Global Network on Business and Disability (Mental Health at Work Resources) ; Obertament ; etc.).

But the reality is that today, workplaces lack sufficient resources and tools to adequately integrate people with mental health problems, although there is a growing personal interest in getting involved and caring for the well-being of employees with mental health issues. When these conditions are not met, the likelihood of discriminatory practices arising in the workplace increases, such as:

  • The mockery
  • Overprotection
  • Paternalism
  • Condescension
  • Underemployment and undervaluation of professional skills
  • Distrust
  • Avoidance and rejection
  • The dismissal.

Stigma exists not only in the workplace but also throughout the job search and employment process , as reflected in the unemployment rate for people with mental health conditions. Surveys show that the vast majority of people with mental health conditions would like to be employed, but despite this desire, they have much lower employment rates than people with physical disabilities, who in turn have lower rates than the general population. Stigma, discrimination, and a lack of professional experience prevent them from doing so. Furthermore, due to a lack of access to employment and other income-generating opportunities, people with mental health conditions are at greater risk of falling into poverty.