Contact GBS
"*" indicates required fields
"*" indicates required fields
On this World Mental Health Day, I find myself enveloped in a profound emotional turbulence. I am struggling and I am not alone.
This past Saturday, the world watched with a collective gasp as Hamas launched an attack on Israel. The subsequent days have been awash with news of calamitous events, each headline more distressing than the last. With each video viewed and every haunting image of decimated families, the weight of the reality bears down: over 1,100 souls lost in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
The desolation is palpable. I am struggling and indeed, I am not alone.
Earlier this year, I had the privilege to journey to Israel, accompanying analysts Gerry Crispin and China Gorman on an HR delegation. The faces and stories of those we encountered there have taken up permanent residence in my thoughts. Notably, Michal Rimon, the indefatigable CEO of Access Israel Organization, champions the cause of the 1.6 million individuals with disabilities in Israel, constituting nearly 18% of its populace. Her insight was a poignant reminder: about a quarter of the global population navigates a world not entirely designed for their success. Conversations with Michal emphasized the urgent need for Talent Acquisition to evolve, ensuring inclusivity for all, regardless of ability.
Does she now grapple with the weight of these events? I am struggling and I am not alone.
I am reminded of my interaction with Maya Huber, the visionary CEO of TaTiO, whose technological innovations hold promise for revolutionizing recruitment. I sent an email just to let her know I was thinking of her. That message of concern, though heartfelt, feels inadequate given the vast physical distance and stark variance in the reality separating us. The warmth of her update on LinkedIn, however, was a testament to her strength and human resilience.
I am struggling. And I am not alone.
Yet, it's not just the CEOs and leaders that cloud my thoughts. The individuals we encountered in the special work zones, primarily Palestinians who had been granted work privileges in Israel, keep returning to the forefront of my mind. Their current status remains shrouded in uncertainty. Are they still able to work? Can they support their families? Are they safe? Just thinking about it brings forth more tears—something that’s been happening a lot these past few days.
The enormity of the current geopolitical turbulence resonates deeply. The abject horror inflicted upon 8.25 million Jewish individuals outside Israel by Hamas' actions is nothing short of terror. The anguish is raw, and while I am struggling, I am indeed not alone in feeling this way.
A recent Gallup report offered a stark reflection on the mental well-being of the global workforce: 7 out of 10 workers grapple with overarching life challenges, and 57% experience elevated job-related stress. The ensuing days may manifest a dip in focus, productivity, and heightened errors amongst your teams. Harvard Business Review's study further highlighted that nearly 46% of employees remain unaware of the mental health resources at their disposal. Now, more than ever, is the time for leaders to step up, ensuring clear, compassionate communication and unwavering support.
Candidates seeking opportunities may need additional patience and understanding in these trying times. The job-seeking process of 2023 has already lengthened by 36% from the previous year. A commitment to timely, clear communication is paramount to navigating these unprecedented challenges.
While the situation in Israel-Gaza seems beyond my immediate control, I find solace in the actions within my grasp. On this World Mental Health Day, my resolve is clear: to reach out, to support, to enhance well-being, and to continue seeking pathways of positive change.
In this vast, intricate tapestry of humanity, I am but one thread. While I am struggling, I am not alone.
I can't solve what's happening in Israel - Gaza. Beyond publicly decrying acts of terrorism and standing with Israel, I recognize I'm even limited in the number of ways I can directly help. And I am not alone. So today, on World Mental Health Day, I will focus on the things I can do: check on the people I care about, make sure my team knows the supports we have available for them, and offer ways to make improvements that can help others as well. And I am not alone.
