In the fast-paced world of advertising, with its relentless deadlines and high-stakes demands, it's too easy to lose sight of our well-being.
After 18 years in the industry, I've seen the toll it takes on mental health—the pressure to deliver perfection constantly, the fear of speaking up against unrealistic client expectations, and the ever-present anxiety of potentially losing accounts. As part of our wellness month this June, we made a deliberate effort to prioritise self-care and the mental health of our team, and the impact has been transformative.
Our industry is notorious for its high-pressure environment, where we're expected to churn out innovative ideas and flawless work while maintaining a polished exterior. Beneath the surface, however, the stress can be overwhelming. Clients can be demanding, sometimes passive-aggressive, with unrealistic expectations. Many of us face the constant threat of losing the account if we don’t comply. This fear of speaking up to protect our mental health is palpable—we worry that doing so could jeopardise our jobs and livelihoods.
Balancing client appeasement with self-care is a delicate act. We're often tasked with building a mansion in the time it would take to construct a stick house, and the pressure to meet these deadlines can be crushing. Despite this, the industry has normalised such behaviour, making it increasingly difficult for us to advocate for our well-being.
We responded by prioritising self-care, disconnecting to recharge through hiking in nature and practising yoga at the Indian Embassy. This wasn’t just a break—it was a statement that our mental health matters.
This issue is deeply personal to me. Last year, I lost my sister, who fought a brave battle with mental health and ultimately succumbed. Her struggle and her loss have profoundly impacted me and underscored the critical importance of prioritising mental health in the workplace. We are not machines; we are human beings, doing our best. Meeting us halfway is crucial. It’s a partnership, and we want to see you win. By supporting us, you ensure we can always help you achieve success.
If we look at the rising numbers of suicides in our country, it is alarming. While not all these tragedies involve people in our industry, we must acknowledge that there is a broader problem. Our society is in pain, and mental health challenges are widespread. It's time for us to confront this reality and work towards meaningful change.
The advertising industry, and many others, are at a crossroads. The constant fear of losing jobs, the inability to set realistic boundaries, and the expectation to always be "on" is a recipe for burnout, anxiety, and depression. We need to have an open and honest conversation about mental health, shattering the stigma and creating a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being.
Agencies and companies should provide accessible mental health resources, promote work-life balance, and create an environment where professionals can openly discuss their struggles without fear of judgment. Clients should demonstrate empathy and understanding to foster a sustainable and fulfilling work environment. Setting realistic deadlines, recognising the true value of work, and treating each other with respect and dignity are crucial.
This wellness month, we made time for ourselves, and it did us good. The passion and talent that fuel our industry must be nurtured, not extinguished. It's time to put an end to the unseen burden and ensure a healthier, more supportive environment for all. Let's prioritise mental health and create a work culture where we can thrive, both professionally and personally.
Words: Girley Jazama
Yorumlar