{
  "id": 15344022,
  "title": "Excessive workloads, poor management contribute to workplace mental health struggles",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/18/excessive-workloads-poor-management-contribute-to-workplace-mental",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-10-18T03:45:27.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2026/10/1558069/excessive-workloads-poor-management-contribute-workplace-mental"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "KUALA LUMPUR: Workplace stress, excessive workloads, and poor management practices are contributing to a rise in workplace mental health struggles, according to the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023. Concerns over stigma, damaged career prospects, and potential dismissal are causing some workers with mental health conditions to hide their symptoms and avoid seeking treatment. The survey found that 4.6% of people aged 16 and above experienced symptoms of depression, a significant increase from 2.3% in 2019. Dr Noor Aishah Rosli, a psychologist at CPC International, says employed individuals with mental health conditions often conceal their diagnoses due to fear of being shamed or perceived as unable to perform their duties. Many continue working and appear unaffected, partly thanks to strong family support. Therapy, medication, and social interaction can help manage symptoms, but severe cases may hinder work performance. Noor Aishah also noted that workplace pressure, often resulting from overworked employers and commanding supervisors, can lead to mental health conditions. Employers should be more aware and sensitive to mental health, and organizations should conduct psychological assessments for employees at all levels. The government could implement similar measures through the Social Security Organisation (Perkeso) by providing trained counsellors or psychologists to assist workers facing workplace problems. Creating a healthier working environment, including better workplace layouts, brighter spaces, and positive social activities, can also improve employees' morale.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: Fear of stigma, damaged career prospects and possible dismissal are driving some workers with mental health conditions to hide their struggles and avoid seeking treatment.",
  "key_points": [
    "Workplace stress and excessive workloads contribute to mental health struggles.",
    "Poor management practices exacerbate mental health issues at work.",
    "Survey shows 4.6% of adults aged 16+ experienced depression symptoms in 2023."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}