A recent survey by Deloitte found that poor mental health among employees costs Indian employers around $14 billion (Rs 1.1 trillion) a year on account of absenteeism, lower productivity, and attrition. While workplace-related stresses were already contributing to a high incidence of mental ailments, the pandemic exacerbated the problem by restricting social interactions and creating financial challenges (loss of job, business, etc).
“With increasing awareness, however, the social stigma surrounding mental health issues has reduced since the pandemic, and people have become more open to seeking professional help,” says Mayank Bathwal, chief executive officer, Aditya Birla Health Insurance.
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