The holidays look a bit different this year for many of us. At Cint, we have decided to forego our usual seasonal activities – like customer gifts, cards and holiday get-togethers – and instead focus our efforts on giving back.
The pandemic has created hardships for people everywhere, including isolation, unemployment, poverty and disease. This reality has spurred a drastic rise in mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety and even suicide and increased domestic violence. The World Health Organization reported that the pandemic has increased the demand for mental health care, while also disrupting or stopping mental health services in 93% of countries around the world.
That’s why we’ve chosen to donate to the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH) this season. The WFMH is the only international organisation that advocates for, helps prevent and treat, and promotes awareness of mental and emotional disorders. Founded in 1948, the nonprofit consults with many other influential groups around the world, advocating for mental health issues, for the greatest possible impact.
More specifically, the WFMH works with all peoples and nations to help prevent mental and emotional disorders, advance the proper treatment and care of those with such disorders, and promote overall mental health. Its mission has become critical during the upheaval of COVID-19. Our donation will go directly toward the WFMH programmes and services to ultimately provide better care and treatment for those experiencing a mental health issue.
Earlier this year, we wrote about some real challenges experienced by some of our own team members to help bring attention and awareness to World Mental Health Day. By supporting causes like this one, Cint hopes to create a culture where everyone can be successful, and our team continues to be committed to challenging stereotypes, fighting bias and broadening perspectives. As we wrote back in October: “Mental health is one of the most neglected health issues worldwide, and we want to help change the conversation. Together, we can help to destigmatise mental health and mental illness.”
By supporting various causes throughout the year, Cint underlines the importance of our core values of accountability, collaboration and innovation. This holiday donation is part of our commitment to social responsibility and creating a culture that is inclusive, safe and promotes the wellbeing of our team, and beyond. So far in 2020, we have actively implemented programs to support causes and boost awareness surrounding equality and diversity (International Women’s Day and Pride Month) and health issues (Breast Cancer Awareness, Movember and Mental Health Day). We’re proud to give back to the WFMH this season.
