Mental Health Programmes in the South African workplaces : an exploratory qualitative study

Abstract

This study explores the availability and accessibility of Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) focusing on mental health within Southern African workplaces. Employee Health and Wellness (EHW) programmes, particularly those addressing mental health, are critical for enhancing workplace health management. Through semi-structured interviews conducted with 15 employees via Microsoft Teams, the research examines the nature, extent, and effectiveness of these programmes. Findings reveal that mental health interventions are diverse, each with unique advantages and purposes. The study highlights employees' perceptions of these programmes and the support they receive, offering insights into their efficacy in addressing workplace mental health needs. However, the findings are limited to the experiences of 15 participants.