Action Alerts /Thank reporter Stephen Lunn for his coverage on mental health in the workplace

Mental health stigma is not just a serious issue here in the United States, but also around the world. The Australian news article “Workers Staying Silent on Mental Health, with Bosses kept in the Dark” by reporter Stephen Lunn portrays the difficulties of employees dealing with mental health challenges, whether it’s their own or those of a family member. Employees are afraid of being fired if they reveal their situation to an employer. Without care and understanding from employers, those with mental health issues will continue to struggle functioning to their full abilities at work. However, employers can’t help if they’re unaware of an employee’s condition. With one in five Australians dealing with some mental health condition every year, “employers have a responsibility to better understand the issue,” said Barbara Hocking executive director of consumer-advocate organization Sane Australia.

Reporter Stephen Lunn features consumers who work for employers sensitive to their mental health. The employees are still productive because supervisors make sure the work environment accommodates their needs as much as possible. Lunn should be thanked for writing an article that inspires consumers not to be ashamed of their condition and encourage employers to be sensitive toward those with mental health conditions.