St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN): The St Kitts and Nevis Chamber of Industry and Commerce remain committed to championing mental well-being in the workplace. This was disclosed by Mr Kevin Hope, Executive Director of the Chamber, in a written statement to WINN FM on Thursday, April 28, 2022.
He said, “The Chamber of Industry and Commerce is committed to championing mental well-being for both management and staff; taking positive actions to build a culture and providing greater support for those who need help. The Chamber of Industry and Commerce is an advocate and is working with members to promote good mental health in the workplace by: Liaising with local and international agencies to offer mental health training/awareness, discussing the design and adoption of a mental health toolkit/plan for members, promoting healthy and physical/sporting activities as part of the required cultural change, providing access and the right support, increasing communication about wellbeing and committing to tackling the causes of work-related stress.”
According to Hope, internationally, there are estimates that one in six employees, an equivalent of 15 to 20 percent of employees, are currently experiencing mental health issues or challenges; noting that, the effects of this result in cost to employers; which ‘includes the cost of presenteeism where people come to work while unwell( lost productivity), the cost of sickness and the cost of staff turnover.
The Chambers Executive Director explained that staff with positive mental health tend to realise their full potential, be more productive, be able to cope with the pressures of life and have positive relationships; which in turn benefits the employer, family and the community.
Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.
Mr Hope, is encouraging all private sector businesses and the community to do our part in ensuring that workplaces and households are happy, supportive and productive.
