In the wake of the alleged “overwork” leading to the death of an EY employee, a psychiatrist from Sir Ganga Ram Hospital highlighted the severe symptoms linked to work-related stress and cautioned employees against making their jobs their sole focus.
Rajiv Mehta,”Work-related stress manifests as various symptoms including diminished interest, sadness, irritability, lack of focus, forgetfulness, feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, suicidal thoughts, and sometimes anxiety.”
He emphasized the importance of addressing work-related pressures and encouraged individuals to engage in enjoyable activities and hobbies outside of work. “Incorporate a variety of interests into your life. Don’t let work consume you entirely. Life encompasses family, friends, and leisure. While ambition is important, it’s vital to be patient and not rush.”
Dr. Mehta also called for a shift in employer attitudes, urging a more compassionate approach: “Employers need to recognize that workers are human beings, not machines. It’s crucial to be assertive about these needs.”
Previously, Ernst & Young (EY) expressed deep sorrow over the death of a 26-year-old chartered accountant on July 20, attributing it to work-related stress. This statement followed the viral spread of a poignant letter from the victim’s mother, which claimed that EY’s work culture and heavy workload contributed to her daughter’s death.
In her letter, the mother described her daughter’s battles with anxiety, insomnia, and stress from an overwhelming workload, highlighting instances where her manager prioritized tasks over employee well-being.
In response, EY acknowledged the employee’s short time at the company and extended condolences to the family. Regarding the claims, EY stated, “We take the family’s correspondence very seriously. The well-being of our employees is our top priority, and we are committed to improving and fostering a healthy work environment for our 100,000 employees across EY member firms in India.”
The firm also confirmed it has provided assistance to the family and will continue to do so. This incident has ignited a broader discussion on work-life balance, mental health, and corporate responsibility.
