May is Mental Health Awareness Month and many Black Americans in the workforce experience mental health challenges due to workplace issues including microaggressions, feeling singled out, the burden of code-switching to fit in, lack of advancement and more.
Workplace discrimination is a determinant of overall health and well-being. In a Pew research study 51% of Black professionals revealed that being Black makes it harder to succeed where they work. Harvard Business Review research reports that in addition to receiving smaller paychecks, Black workers are also less likely to have supportive bosses, a positive work culture and a healthy work-life balance.
These kinds of feelings can lead to depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders.
But the good news is that there is help. There are resources in many companies for employees that can be of assistance.
Carbon Convos chatted with Vikki Walton, senior principal and health equity leader in the MercerWELL practice. She leads the Health Equity Center of Excellence, working alongside a team of subject matter experts to drive advancements in health equity within employer benefits.
Walton helps companies maintain and develop health benefits that are designed to meet the needs of a diverse workforce, as the needs of Black employees can be very different from those of white workers.
Watch our discussion on managing mental health challenges and work.
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