This is an initiative by ZapScale on behalf of employees across the globe. 

To,

Employers, corporates, organisations, governments, stakeholders, the World Health Organisation, and the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH).

Subject: Mental Health Leave (MHL) Application

I humbly request that you grant me the legal right to a fixed number of Mental Health Leave (MHL) days.

When I had to move into a new home, I took CL (Casual Leave). When I went on vacation, I took PL (Privilege Leave). When I was sick, I took SL (Sick Leave).

But what should I do when I suffer from burnout, stress, anxiety, depression, or any other mental health issue?

How do I apply for Mental Health Leave (MHL)?

Unlike CL, PL, and SL, I am not legally entitled to MHL. Labour laws currently do not have specific provisions for Mental Health Leave, making it difficult for employees to take time off for mental health reasons.

So I can either suffer in silence or give excuses for taking time off for mental health.

Employers must have policies in place for Mental Health Leave, as this allows employees to take time off work to address mental health issues without fear of losing their job or facing discrimination.

By openly recognising stress and burnout as problems and acknowledging that when employees feel overly stressed or have any mental health concerns they can easily take time off, the company can increase employee satisfaction and productivity, and decrease absenteeism and attrition.

Since mental health issues in the workplace can be hard to spot and are seldom discussed openly, they can harm a company's business in quantifiable ways.

Globally, an estimated 12 billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety at a cost of US$1 trillion per year in lost productivity.

How? Mental illnesses often lead to absenteeism, lower productivity, and attrition. So, by accepting my application, you can also increase your profitability.

Hoping to receive a positive response from you.

Thanking you,

On behalf of every employee

 

 

 

At ZapScale, we believe it is crucial for employers to have policies and practices in place for Mental Health Leave (MHL), as this provides employees the ability to take time off work to address mental health issues without fear or stigma. We have made MHL official in our company, and we urge every employer to do the same so we can normalize taking leave for mental health reasons.

Chosen through a global vote involving World Federation of Mental Health members, stakeholders, and supporters, the official theme of World Mental Health Day 2024 is:

‘It is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace.’

Implementing Mental Health Leave (MHL) officially in a company can have significant positive impacts on both employees and the organization as a whole.

Benefits for Employees:

Improved mental well-being: Employees have the opportunity to take necessary time off to address mental health concerns, leading to better overall well-being and satisfaction.

Reduced stigma: Official MHL policies help normalize mental health discussions in the workplace, reducing stigma and encouraging employees to seek help without fear.

Increased job satisfaction: Knowing that their employer supports their mental health needs can boost morale and increase job satisfaction.

Benefits for Employers:

Higher productivity: Mentally healthy employees are more focused, creative, and productive. 

Reduced absenteeism and turnover: Proactively supporting mental health can decrease unplanned absences and reduce employee turnover

Positive workplace culture: Promoting mental health fosters a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued and understood.

Changing workplace attitudes toward mental health may require time and consistent effort. Implementing MHL officially demonstrates a company's commitment to its employees' holistic health, and it fosters a culture of empathy and support. Officially having Mental Health Leave in a company creates a supportive environment that benefits everyone involved. It acknowledges the importance of mental well-being, reduces stigma, and promotes a healthier, more productive workplace.

We hope that, in the future, like CL, PL, and SL, every employee will be legally entitled to a fixed number of Mental Health Leave (MHL) days. We have started this petition not only to raise awareness and initiate conversations about mental well-being on a global level, but also to drive concrete action towards making MHL official. We urge employers, organizations, and governments to implement MHL policies and take definitive steps to prioritize mental health in the workplace.