The Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Umaru Napoleon Koroma, has reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to promoting mentally healthy workplaces and protecting the rights and welfare of workers experiencing mental health challenges.
Speaking at the National Mental Health Symposium, held under the theme “Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change,” Minister Koroma stressed that mental health is essential to human dignity, workplace productivity and sustainable national development.
Organised by the Ministry of Health through its Directorate of Mental Health and Non-Communicable Diseases, the symposium featured the launch of Responsible Reporting on Mental, Neurological and Substance Abuse Disorders: A Practical Guide for Journalists. Koroma unveiled the guide alongside representatives of other ministries and Sierra Leonean journalists.
The Minister noted that stress, burnout, workplace harassment and stigma undermine productivity and human potential. He pledged to use labour inspection systems and occupational safety and health frameworks, while engaging employers and workers’ organisations to promote supportive, inclusive and respectful workplaces.
He also urged employers to incorporate mental health awareness into workplace wellness programmes and establish safe channels for employees to seek assistance without fear of punishment or discrimination. The Ministry will further engage employers, trade unions and vocational training institutions to create practical employment opportunities for people with lived experience of mental health conditions.
Koroma also highlighted the link between mental health challenges, income loss and poverty, stressing the importance of social safety nets, disability support where applicable, and unemployment-related interventions. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to reviewing and improving these measures to ensure that people facing mental health difficulties receive adequate support.
The newly launched practical guide is intended to help journalists report on mental, neurological and substance use disorders accurately and responsibly while reducing stigma and discrimination.
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