Fil C. Sionil
In the not-so-distant past, corporates were more focused on ways and means of getting ahead of each other, widening their clientele base. Now, amidst the stiff competition, there’s a paradigm shift. They’re more sensitive to the needs of their customers to maintain, if not altogether, increase their market share.
One avenue pursued is through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). There are numerous ways of doing this. Among them, the preservation of the environment by reducing the carbon imprint, financial literacy, assistance to PWDs (persons with disability), and those with special needs. The positive effect of these CSR is vast.
Of late, there has been a growing concern on mental wellness. Stress and depression, left untreated, may lead to a snap, incidence of which has been on the uptick. Just this Tuesday it was K-pop female star Goo Hara, six weeks after Sulli, another K-pop artist, snapped. Five years ago, it was Robin Williams. Then American chef and television personality Anthony Bourdain and famous designer Kate Spade in 2018. They all have what each and everyone of us wish for - money, glory, fame. But, what drives famous personalities to snap? What drives them to the edge?
This is the rationale behind the inclusion of mental fitness in the CRS program. One can never know what other persons are going through, says Makati Business Club Chairman Ed Chua. In our conversion Wednesday, he said the current cutting-edge environment, particularly heavy reliance on technology, the financial pressure of a growing family and job responsibilities, not to mention the irritating traffic flow, collectively are causes of stress and depression. Other contributory elements are social media, less personal contact due to heavy dependence on technology as a source of entertainment, conflict, abuse, and cyber bullying.
Depression has become a national issue. About 10 years ago, the country’s standing was at on the bottom. Now it has jumped to the top five. It is for this reason that non-government organizations like the Natasha Goulbourn Foundation (NGF) and business firms are joining hands to promote mental health awareness. Mr. Ed sits in the advisory board of NGF that fosters mental fitness.
The foundation’s advocacy is to bringing depression to light through educational lectures. Art enthusiasts are into it as well. Early this month, the Metropolitan Museum, in partnership with the Visual Arts Helping Hands Foundation, mounted an art exhibit “'The Empty Chair Project” that tackles the current and timely subject of mental health, anchored on the idea that art heals.
A conducive environment combined with a management mindful of the needs of the employees promotes productivity. Looking after the welfare of the workforce. Providing activities, an outlet to buoy up mental fitness as part of one’s overall well-being, good working conditions and a support system will help manage the pressure, stress, and depression.
The wheels of business have incorporated the art of holding hands that can change lives of the consumers.
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