Mawazo leads the way in Prioritising Mental Health in the Workplace
Image Credit: Mawazo Institute
Author: Naliaka Odera
The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasises that this World Mental Health Day, with 60% of the global population engaged in the workforce, and an increasing prevalence of work-related mental health disorders such as stress and burnout affecting individuals’ overall wellbeing, “It is time to prioritise mental health in the workplace!” At Mawazo, the mental health of staff is a key aspect of the organisation’s operations. The Mawazo Institute stands out as one of the few organisations in the region that operates a four-day work week alongside a hybrid working arrangement.
Ashley Muthaka, the Director of Operations, explains that Mawazo recognises its employees as central to its work and that it is imperative for the staff to show up feeling their best in order to effectively serve its beneficiaries. She states, “Having a healthy workforce leads to increased productivity, enhanced creativity and innovative thinking, and improved employee retention.”
Image Credit: Mawazo Institute
A 2021 study conducted by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation revealed that nearly 20% of the global population suffers from mental health disorders. Furthermore, it indicated that 71% of anxiety disorders could be alleviated if people experiencing anxiety had access to optimal care. In response to these findings, WHO urges both governments and employers to prioritise and adequately address the mental health needs of their staff members.
Broadly, there are two ways to address mental health concerns in the workplace: prevention, and access to treatment. Mawazo has been very purposeful in catering to both for its staff members. In terms of prevention, Mawazo has instituted a flexible work arrangement, a 4-day work week, an August organisational-wide slowdown period, and a work culture that emphasises care and compassion. To encourage and facilitate the treatment of mental health disorders, Mawazo extends sick leave beyond physical issues to mental health issues as well, and provides a wellness fund that employees can use for therapy, physical fitness activities, or any other endeavours that positively contributes to their mental health.
Image Credit: Mawazo Institute
Ashley explains that Mawazo has seen exceedingly positive results from their policies. She argues that supporting mental health creates a culture of empathy and well-being, where employees feel seen and heard, leading to stronger team dynamics, increased morale, and a more collaborative environment. This approach also helps destigmatize mental health issues by encouraging open conversations and normalising seeking help. Ultimately, an employee whose wellness has been prioritised, makes a better worker. Ashley has observed a decrease in absenteeism, and an increase in efficiency and engagement.
On a personal note, she credits Mawazo’s wellness fund for supporting her commitment to staying physically active, and appreciates the 4 day-work week for encouraging her to prioritise rest. “Spending quality time with those who matter to me has helped reduce stress, promoted my happiness and strengthened my emotional well-being,” she explains. Many other staff members share similar sentiments; some attribute their improved mental health to Mawazo’s wellness fund, which has supplemented their therapy expenses, while others value the additional time afforded by the 4-day work week to spend with their families. Several other employees have found the flexible work arrangements allow them to prioritise their mental health and regularly check in with themselves.
Mawazo is leading the charge as an organisation that centres the mental health needs of its staff members, with the hope that it will eventually be one of many such organisations in the region. As it continues to support innovation and research by its Fellows, Mawazo is determined to remain innovative, and attuned to the needs of its staff.