World Mental Health Day: 10 TedX Talks to Help Prevent a Mental Health Crisis at Work

More than half of the world’s population is currently in work, yet 15% of working-age adults live with a mental disorder, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). 

Conditions like depression, anxiety, and severe mental health challenges don’t just affect confidence, they impact productivity, attendance, and career growth. 

Globally, 12 billion working days are lost each year to depression and anxiety alone, while many with severe mental health conditions remain excluded from work, despite employment being crucial for recovery, noted WHO. 

The impact stretches beyond individuals, affecting families, colleagues, communities, and even the global economy, which loses around US$1 trillion annually due to reduced productivity. 

So, what helps? Sometimes workplace wellness strategies work. Sometimes a quick pep talk from managers or company leadership helps. Sometimes even a small activity with colleagues can brighten the day and lift spirits, but these alone don’t create long-term impact.

What’s most needed is a workplace culture where mental vulnerabilities aren’t seen as weaknesses or threats to productivity, but as realities to be acknowledged, addressed, and supported, without stigma or fear of judgment. 

Here are 10 TedX talks that offer valuable perspectives and actionable advice for improving workplace mental wellbeing:

Redlo highlights the role of emotional intelligence in building a workplace culture that prioritizes mental health. Companies that support employee well-being, including mental health, self-care, and emotional intelligence, see higher productivity, growth, and individual success from happier, well-adjusted employees. 

Bailey shares his personal experiences with mental health challenges at work, both positive and negative, and outlines how managers can effectively support employees. By creating a safe environment where people feel comfortable speaking up, organizations can foster stronger relationships and boost productivity. He emphasizes that employee mental health and wellbeing is not just an HR responsibility.. 

A must-watch for HR and managers, as Smit shares how hiring the right cultural fit drove his company’s success and reveals his recruitment secrets for a happy, healthy workplace. He also answers today’s key question: How can companies empower employees and create a workplace where they truly feel cared for? 

Mental health professionals also experience racial trauma in the workplace. While phrases like “Black don’t crack” are often used, it’s crucial to address how racial trauma and weathering impact mental health and wellbeing. Dr. Jackman shares strategies for organizations to promote mental health and foster a culture of wellbeing. 

Workplace stress and burnout are costly, wellness advocate Cooke shares strategies for businesses and individuals to prioritize mental, physical, and emotional well-being, boosting both productivity and personal health. 

Most people think humor and work don’t mix, but research shows that employees who embrace it are less stressed, happier, and even earn more. Tarvin, a software engineer turned “humor engineer,” demonstrates how laughter can reduce stress, boost team effectiveness, and make even tedious tasks more enjoyable. 

Burnout often occurs when employees can’t switch off work thoughts after hours or on weekends. Psychologist and author Winch explains how ruminating on tomorrow’s tasks or office tensions fuels burnout, and shares three simple techniques to help you relax, recharge, and leave work at work. 

Psychologist McGonigal challenges the conventional view of stress, suggesting that embracing stress can enhance resilience and performance. 

Neuroscientist Suzuki explains how regular physical activity boosts mood, memory, and overall mental wellbeing. Exercise, she says, is one of the most transformative things for your brain – a must-watch for understanding neurodiversity at work. 

Olympic diver Taylor explains how prolonged psychological stress harms mental health and how physical activity is our strongest defense. Passionate about movement, wellness, and performance, he shares practical insights to help manage stress and boost wellbeing. 

Whether you're an employee seeking personal strategies or a leader looking to foster a supportive environment, these 15-20 minute videos offer guidance to help you navigate the challenges of maintaining mental health at work.

The WHO in collaboration with the International Labour Organization (ILO), has developed Guidelines on Mental Health at Work and a Policy Brief to provide evidence-based recommendations. These resources aim to create healthier workplaces, promote mental well-being, and ensure that all workers, regardless of mental health status, can participate fully and thrive.