WHO Director-General's remarks at the Mental Health At Work platform and app launch – 16 May 2022

Dear colleagues and friends,

I am thrilled to announce the launch of the Mental Health At Work Platform.

This new platform is designed to protect our most precious asset: our people.

The Mental Health at Work platform is one of many initiatives in our efforts to build a more respectful workplace.

Treating others well starts with treating our own mental health well.

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on the mental health of many people, including us.

We have been, and still are, exposed to pressures and changes in our professional and personal lives, both of which can affect the other.

Some of us may feel overburdened by our workloads;

Some by other pressures from our working conditions;

Some by ups and downs in our personal lives that affect our work, and vice versa;

And some of us, especially those working in countries with humanitarian situations, are coming face to face with human suffering.

That's why we need each other.

This web-based platform and mobile app is part of our effort to help staff navigate these challenges by providing access to quality mental health information and tips, in an easy-to-access format.

I encourage you to set aside time to use it.

As always, our Psychologists and Counsellors remain available for individual and group support.

I thank the Workforce Mental Health Task Force for developing this innovative tool, and everyone who shared ideas and feedback via the workforce mental health surveys.

The platform will also be available via a mobile phone application, which we expect to be available by the end of next week.

Today's launch is an important step in our commitment to support the mental health of all our colleagues at WHO and UNAIDs.

I want you all to know that this step will not be the last.

Your mental health and wellbeing at work is not just your own responsibility; WHO, as your employer, has a responsibility to protect and promote your health and wellbeing.

All members of our workforce should have access to quality and culturally appropriate mental health support when and where they need it.

That's why our Staff Health Insurance is now reviewing how it can expand mental health and wellbeing coverage.

I am aware that in many workplaces, discussing mental health is unfortunately stigmatized.

It is a disappointing realization that we are no stranger to the stigma towards mental health, even here in WHO.

We need to bring out of the silence the issues that affect our mental health at work - at country, regional and HQ offices.

And we need to keep the conversation open, informing strategic planning and actions, and creating an inclusive working environment.

Because there is no health without mental health.

I thank you.

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