Highlights from the Bangalore University Conference on Mental Health in the Workplace

Introduction

The International Conference on Mental Health in the Workplace, held on September 26th and 27th, 2024, at Bangalore University, brought together global experts to tackle one of today’s most pressing challenges: fostering mental well-being in professional environments. Hosted by the Department of Psychology and the Centre for Psychological Counselling at Bangalore University, the event was aligned with the World Mental Health Day theme of “Mental Health at the Workplace.” 

This two-day conference provided a platform for mental health professionals, academics, HR leaders, policymakers, and wellness experts to exchange insights on promoting mental health in the workplace, with discussions focused on creating supportive, stigma-free work cultures.

The conference featured keynote addresses from renowned speakers like Dr. Magdalena Żemojtel-Piotrowska, who explored the impact of narcissism on workplace happiness, and Dr. Shanmukh V. Kamble, who shared strategies for enhancing collective well-being at work. Under sub-themes such as resilience-building, work-life balance, digital wellness, and inclusive workplace practices, the sessions and presentations delved into innovative strategies that prioritize mental health as a key driver of productivity and organisational success.

In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the key research papers presented at the conference, each shedding light on new findings and practical approaches that organizations can adopt to improve mental health support in the workplace.

Keynote Speakers: Insights into Workplace Mental Health

The conference featured thought-provoking keynote presentations from internationally recognised

 experts, each bringing a unique perspective to workplace mental health.

Dr. Magdalena Żemojtel-Piotrowska: Are Narcissists Happy at Work? Insights from Two Models of Narcissism

Dr Magdalena Żemojtel-Piotrowska, a leading figure in cross-cultural psychology, kicked off the event with a fascinating presentation on the relationship between narcissism and workplace happiness. Dr. Żemojtel-Piotrowska explored two models of narcissism — grandiose and vulnerable — and their distinct effects on job satisfaction and professional relationships.

Through this lens, she sheds light on how certain personality traits may either enhance or hinder an individual’s ability to find fulfilment at work. Her insights are especially relevant for HR professionals and managers aiming to cultivate a positive, harmonious work environment. Understanding how diverse personality types impact workplace dynamics can guide the development of tailored mental health and interpersonal support strategies.

Dr. Jarosław Piotrowski: Associations Between Religiosity, Spirituality, and Burnout Among Territorial Defense Forces Soldiers

Dr. Jarosław Piotrowski, a distinguished social psychology professor, presented research focused on the complex interplay between religiosity, spirituality, and burnout, drawing insights from a study involving Territorial Defense Forces soldiers. While the study targeted a specific population, Dr. Piotrowski’s findings on how spirituality and personal beliefs can influence burnout offer broader implications for workplaces.

His presentation emphasised that fostering a work environment that respects individual beliefs and supports holistic well-being can be a powerful tool against burnout. This perspective can inspire organisations to create more inclusive policies that respect employees’ personal values as part of their mental health and wellness initiatives.

Dr. Shanmukh V. Kamble: Thriving Together – Strategies for Enhancing Mental Health at Work

Dr. Shanmukh V. Kamble’s keynote addressed practical strategies to enhance collective mental health and build resilience within the workplace. Emphasising a team-based approach to mental health, Dr. Kamble’s presentation outlined ways organisations can create environments where employees support one another and thrive together. 

His approach advocates for open communication channels, peer support systems, and organisational policies that promote a balanced work-life dynamic. For managers and wellness leaders, his insights serve as a guide to nurturing a cohesive work culture that places well-being at the core of productivity.

These keynote presentations highlighted the multifaceted nature of mental health in professional settings, showing how psychological insights, interpersonal dynamics, and organisational values intersect to shape employee well-being. Each speaker offered actionable strategies and ideas that organizations can integrate into their workplace policies, setting a foundation for mental health practices that are both inclusive and effective.

Key Papers and Insights

The Impact of Leadership on Employees’ Perception of Religious Inclusion within the Organizational Setting

Author: Angela Sharon, Christ (Deemed to Be) University, Bengaluru

This study explores the crucial role of leadership in fostering religious inclusion in the workplace, going beyond mere compliance with anti-discrimination laws. It focuses on how leaders shape employees’ perceptions of religious diversity by supporting practices like flexible scheduling for prayer and accommodations for religious attire. Using Social Identity Theory, the research highlights how belonging to inclusive social groups positively impacts employees’ psychological safety and well-being.

Through semi-structured interviews, the study gathers insights from employees of various religious backgrounds to understand the influence of leadership on their experiences. The findings suggest that leaders who actively respect diverse religious identities contribute to stronger loyalty, job satisfaction, and engagement. Additionally, the study delves into how leaders’ proactive measures, like addressing microaggressions and promoting interfaith dialogue, create a more respectful and inclusive work environment.

The paper also examines how integrating religious perspectives into decision-making processes can boost creativity and innovation. By identifying strategies for inclusive leadership, the study offers practical insights for creating harmonious workplaces that enhance organisational culture, employee well-being, and a sense of community.

Self-Compassion as a Buffer Against Quarter-Life Crisis: A Correlational Study

Authors: Fernandes Glenda, Ph.D. scholar, and Dr. Aiswarya V R, Assistant Professor, Christ University, Bengaluru

This study examines the role of self-compassion in mitigating the effects of a quarter-life crisis, a period of self-doubt and uncertainty typically experienced by individuals in their mid-20s to early 30s. This phase often involves feelings of inadequacy, existential questioning, and career dissatisfaction, influenced by societal pressures and personal aspirations. Self-compassion, defined as treating oneself with kindness during challenging times, is explored as a potential coping mechanism for this crisis.

The research involved 285 participants aged 18-35, utilising measures of self-compassion and quarter-life crisis to analyse their relationship. Findings indicate a significant negative correlation between self-compassion and the intensity of quarter-life crisis (ρ = -0.31, p < .001). Regression analysis suggests that higher levels of self-compassion can predict a decrease in the severity of quarter-life crises.

The study underscores the importance of integrating self-compassion training in professional development programs to support individuals through this transitional stage. Such interventions could enhance mental health and workplace productivity, providing valuable insights for future research aimed at supporting those navigating quarter-life challenges.

A Study Among Dual-Career Families: Examining Role Overload, Work Burnout, and Well-Being

Authors: Dhriti Patel and Dr. Palanisamy V, Christ University, Bengaluru

This study investigates the effects of role overload on work burnout and subjective well-being in dual-career families, focusing on the moderating role of meaning in work. With the shift from traditional gender roles, dual-career couples often face work-life balance challenges, experiencing increased role overload and burnout. The research surveyed 248 men and women from dual-career families in India, using scales for role overload, subjective well-being, work burnout, and meaning in work.

Results reveal a significant negative correlation between role overload and subjective well-being and a positive correlation between role overload and work burnout. The study found that women experience higher levels of role overload than men, with a more pronounced impact on their well-being. Interestingly, while meaning in work did not moderate the relationship between role overload and subjective well-being, it showed a negative correlation with work burnout, suggesting that finding meaning in work may alleviate some burnout effects.

The study concludes that role overload management is crucial in dual-career families, with a particular focus on how meaning in work can influence work environments and mitigate stress.

A Narrative Review of Content and Engagement Techniques in Workplace Mental Health Literacy Interventions

Authors: Rajnandini Rathod, Ph.D. scholar, and Dr. Akanksha Rani, Christ University, Bengaluru

This narrative review examines workplace mental health literacy interventions, which aim to enhance employees’ understanding of mental health, foster supportive environments, and encourage early help-seeking behaviours. The review focuses on the content typically covered in these interventions, such as stress management, emotional resilience, and mental health awareness.

Additionally, the paper explores various engagement techniques employed to increase the effectiveness of these programs, including role-playing, introspective exercises, presentations, and group discussions. By analysing these strategies, the paper provides insights into their effectiveness, highlighting areas for improvement and potential directions for future research. This review underscores the importance of thoughtfully designed interventions that address the diverse needs of employees in supporting mental health in the workplace.

Emerging Trends in Workplace Mental Health

The International Conference on Mental Health in the Workplace highlighted several key trends that reflect the evolving landscape of mental health support in professional settings. Through innovative research and discussions, participants identified new approaches to enhancing employee well-being, addressing inclusivity, and tackling mental health challenges. Here are some of the prominent trends that emerged from the conference:

1. Inclusive Leadership and Cultural Sensitivity

A central theme of the conference was the importance of inclusive leadership in fostering a respectful and supportive workplace. Angela Sharon’s paper on religious inclusion emphasised that leaders play a crucial role in creating environments where employees feel safe and valued, regardless of their religious background. 

2. Self-Compassion as a Tool for Navigating Transitional Phases

The concept of self-compassion is gaining traction as an effective way to manage life’s challenges, particularly during transitional phases like the quarter-life crisis. Fernandes Glenda and Dr Aiswarya V R’s study found that self-compassion serves as a buffer against feelings of inadequacy and existential stress often faced by young adults entering the workforce.

3. Addressing Role Overload and Work Burnout in Dual-Career Families

The trend of dual-career families has introduced new challenges, particularly around role overload and work-life balance. Dhriti Patel and Dr Palanisamy V’s study highlighted how role overload is linked to burnout and decreased well-being, with women in dual-career roles experiencing higher levels of strain.

4. Mental Health Literacy Interventions and Engagement Techniques

Improving mental health literacy in the workplace is another emerging focus area. Rajnandini Rathod and Dr Akanksha Rani’s review of mental health literacy interventions underscored the role of educational content and interactive engagement techniques, such as role-playing and group discussions, in helping employees understand and address mental health issues. 

5. Digital Wellness and Technology’s Impact on Mental Health

With the increasing integration of technology into daily work routines, the impact of digital wellness on mental health has become a key area of focus. Conference discussions explored both the positive and negative effects of technology in the workplace. On one hand, digital tools like mental health apps can provide accessible support and track well-being. On the other, excessive screen time and constant connectivity can lead to burnout and stress. 

Conclusion

The discussions and research presented at the Bangalore University Conference underscore a clear message: fostering mental health in the workplace is not just beneficial; it’s essential for sustainable organisational success. By embracing inclusive leadership, encouraging self-compassion, addressing the unique needs of dual-career families, enhancing mental health literacy, and promoting digital wellness, workplaces can cultivate an environment that supports both individual well-being and collective productivity. 

For organisations and leaders, the call to action is to take tangible steps toward implementing these insights. Whether by offering self-compassion workshops, setting up mental health literacy programs, or re-evaluating policies to support work-life balance, every effort contributes to building a workplace where employees feel valued, understood, and empowered. Employees, too, can advocate for their mental health needs, participate in wellness programs, and practice self-compassion as they navigate the complexities of their roles.