 |
|
The tragic suicide of a 38-year-old software engineer in Chennai, India, has once again brought to the forefront the issue of work-related stress and its devastating consequences. Karthikeyan, who had been working as a techie for 15 years, was found dead at his home, having reportedly electrocuted himself. Police investigations revealed that he had been struggling with depression for two months, citing work pressure as a major contributing factor.
This incident echoes a recent, similar tragedy involving a 26-year-old chartered accountant, Anna Sebastian Perayil, who passed away while working for Ernst & Young. Her mother alleged that a toxic work culture, characterized by excessive workload and a lack of support, significantly impacted her daughter's mental well-being, ultimately leading to her death. Following this case, the Union Labour Ministry has initiated an investigation into the working conditions at Ernst & Young.
Both cases highlight the pressing need for workplaces to prioritize employee well-being. While companies often boast of their commitment to employee health, the reality on the ground can be very different. The pressure to meet deadlines, achieve targets, and constantly prove oneself can take a heavy toll, pushing individuals to their limits. Ignoring signs of stress and burnout can have dire consequences, as tragically demonstrated by the recent cases.
The suicides of Karthikeyan and Anna underscore the urgency of addressing work culture issues that contribute to mental health problems. Companies must create environments that support employee well-being, promote healthy work-life balance, and encourage open communication about mental health concerns. Additionally, governments and regulatory bodies have a crucial role to play in enacting policies that safeguard the mental health of workers.
The tragedy of these young lives lost underscores the need for a fundamental shift in how we approach work. It's not just about productivity or profit; it's about recognizing the human cost of neglecting mental well-being. The well-being of employees should be paramount, and this requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including employers, employees, and policymakers, to create a more supportive and humane work environment.
Source: Chennai Techie Dies By Suicide, Was In Depression Over Work Pressure: Cops