Balancing personal and professional lives is an increasingly complex challenge in today’s fast-paced world. Many professionals face difficulties managing their emotions, striving to keep personal frustrations from affecting workplace interactions and vice versa. Unfortunately, some individuals struggle to maintain self-control in high-pressure situations, occasionally allowing impulsive words or actions to overshadow their intentions, often recognising the impacts only after the damage is done.
The growing competition in the market, coupled with rising demands and expectations from family and social circles, further exacerbates the pressure. Parental expectations, the responsibilities of raising children, and the stress of maintaining professional standards can push individuals toward emotional and mental strain.
As a result, many professionals grapple with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Left unaddressed, these issues can spiral into feelings of isolation, damaged relationships, and in extreme cases, suicidal tendencies.
It is crucial for organisations, families and communities to foster environments where mental health is prioritised, offering support systems to help professionals navigate these pressures more effectively.
Decent work is widely recognised as beneficial for mental health but its positive effects depend largely on an individual’s passion and satisfaction with their work, rather than the nature of the job itself. A supportive work environment that fosters equality, fairness and respect plays a critical role in promoting mental well-being. Conversely, factors such as discrimination, inequality, excessive workloads, low job control and job insecurity can pose significant risks to mental health.
A 2019 survey conducted by the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated that 15% of working-age adults globally suffer from a mental disorder. Depression and anxiety, two of the most common conditions, have a profound impact on workplace productivity. Every year, an estimated 12 billion working days are lost due to these conditions, amounting to an economic cost of approximately USD 1 trillion in lost productivity.
Mental health often receives far less attention than physical health, largely due to societal stigma and lack of awareness. This silence can have devastating consequences. Many mental health issues go unrecognised and untreated, contributing to the alarming statistic of over 720,000 suicides globally each year. Men, in particular, are disproportionately affected, accounting for 75% of suicide deaths. Alarmingly, 40% of men never discuss their mental health struggles throughout their lives.
In the professional world, the situation is exacerbated by relentless pressures to meet targets, deadlines and managerial expectations. Professionals often prioritise work goals over their own well-being, unaware of how workplace stress impacts their mental health and spills over into their personal lives, straining family relationships.
To address this growing crisis, it is imperative to normalise conversations around mental health, dismantle societal barriers, and foster supportive systems both at home and in the workplace. Only by prioritising mental well-being can individuals truly thrive in all aspects of life.
As I mark three years with WaterAid Nepal, I reflect on my journey and the growth I’ve experienced both professionally and personally. My role requires close collaboration with leaders, policymakers, development practitioners, local NGOs and community leaders. To meet these demands, I must remain motivated, inspiring and punctual in all engagements, be it official discussions or meetings. Balancing personal and professional responsibilities has often felt challenging, especially when office work spills into off-hours, which can be difficult to manage.
Working at WaterAid Nepal has been a transformative experience. As a WASH professional, joining this esteemed organisation was a dream come true. From the outset, I admired WaterAid Nepal’s commitment to ensuring access to water, sanitation and hygiene for all.
I vividly recall my first day – it was a beautiful morning with clear skies and radiant sunlight. I spent some time outside the office premises, soaking in the serene environment. I was warmly welcomed by my colleagues and received a thoughtfully curated welcome pack that even included items for my family, from elder members to my youngest child. This gesture deeply resonated with me, reflecting the organisation’s care for its employees.
At the time, we were grappling with the challenges of COVID-19. WaterAid Nepal provided all staff with a COVID care pack and arranged sessions with medical doctors to enhance our understanding of prevention measures. This proactive approach made a lasting impression on me.
One of WaterAid Nepal’s standout features is its emphasis on employee engagement. The monthly staff forum offers a platform for sharing personal challenges and brainstorming solutions. Birthdays are celebrated with lunch, adding a personal touch to the professional environment.
Recently, a message circulated about participating in a Secret Santa gift exchange for Christmas. Initially, I planned to gift a motivational book, Nims Purja- Beyond Possible, but reconsidered after reflecting on inclusivity, opting for a more universally appreciated gift. These small but meaningful activities have helped foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
The organisation also hosts various events to energise staff. Initially, I worried that such activities might hinder project timelines. However, as I participated in these events, I found them rejuvenating and realised they actually enhanced my productivity.
WaterAid Nepal celebrates cultural diversity through events like Culture Week, where staff wear traditional attire, highlighting the organisation’s respect for cultural identities. The momo-making competition has been another memorable activity, offering a unique opportunity to bond with colleagues and develop deeper connections.
Festivals such as Teej and Tihar are celebrated in unique ways, fostering inclusivity and teamwork. During Teej, male staff organise a special programme for their female colleagues, while in Tihar, female staff reciprocate with lunch and gifts for male colleagues.
WaterAid Nepal actively encourages personal growth through initiatives like Toastmasters, which has significantly improved my leadership and communication skills. Similarly, activities like futsal and table tennis competitions create opportunities for informal interactions, boosting morale and team spirit.
These experiences have underscored the value of small investments in staff motivation and mental well-being. Spending even a few hours a week on such activities leaves staff feeling refreshed, motivated and more productive. I’ve realised that quality work doesn’t always equate to hours spent in front of a computer but is often enhanced by engaging with others and taking breaks to recharge.
From my three years at WaterAid Nepal, I can firmly say that initiatives focused on employee well-being and engagement have a profound impact. They not only foster creativity and problem-solving beyond assigned duties but also align employees with organisational goals, driving better outcomes. Small efforts can lead to big changes, creating a thriving and dynamic workplace for all.
(Gautam is the Municipal Water Operator Partnership Coordinator at WaterAid Nepal, with over 14 years of experience in Nepal’s WASH sector.)
