Workplace mental health trends show increased disclosure openness and privacy concerns

A report from job portal Naukri.com indicates that 61 per cent of jobseekers are open to disclosing mental health-related leave. The study, which surveyed 10,000 respondents across 83 industries, identified poor work-life balance (42 per cent), lack of managerial support (27 per cent), and heavy workloads (20 per cent) as primary factors impacting mental health.

Despite increased openness, jobseekers expressed concerns regarding disclosure, including the potential loss of career opportunities (33 per cent) and fears of being perceived as weak (19 per cent). To improve support, 53 per cent of respondents suggested establishing clearer boundaries between work and personal time.

In the United Arab Emirates, legal experts note that while employees' psychiatric diagnoses and medical histories are generally private, disclosure may be relevant in specific contexts such as sick leave, workplace performance, or medical fitness requirements. Employers may inquire about matters affecting attendance or the ability to perform duties, but they do not have an unrestricted right to private medical information.