Dell Technologies disrupts mental health stigma at work with its holistic approach

Vulnerability has historically had a bad reputation. In recent years, however, vulnerability has not just become culturally acceptable but has been accepted, even embraced. The tides of work are invariably changing, especially where mental wellness is concerned, says Ng Tian Beng, the senior vice president and general manager (Channels, Asia Pacific Japan) at Dell Technologies.

Ng highlights the company's multifaceted approach to evolving alongside the changing landscape — a dedication to mental well-being that goes beyond rhetoric, as evidenced by several Glassdoor reviews. A constant refrain in the reviews often touches on providing mental health assistance, which includes access to professional consultants.

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“Initiatives like the Family Balance Employee Resource Group and the digital Dell Wellness Hub have seen strong participation rates. The number of employees signing up for the latter grew by 27 per cent from 2022 to 2023,” according to the workplace mental health advocate. The Employee Assistance Programme provides professional counselling services for those who desire a neutral sounding board. 

Advocating from the frontlines

Ng has spearheaded numerous Dell Technologies’ mental wellness programmes, but what stands out for him is his involvement in mental wellness training for people managers. The campaign, designed to equip leaders with the tools to understand and manage their own mental health, subsequently created a ripple effect for their teams.

“We believe that it is important to have our people managers take care of their own mental wellness first, as, without that, it will be difficult for them to lead their teams. Experiencing it firsthand not only allowed them to understand the programme's potential impact but also how it could be improved for their team members,” he relates.

Through his active participation in several programmes, he also recognises the power of leaders sharing their struggles, breaking the silence, and creating an environment where conversations about mental wellness are not just welcomed but normalised. Ng, 54, cites himself as an example: “I did find it difficult to share openly about my personal mental wellness challenges as it opens up the vulnerable side. 

“During the strict pandemic circuit breaker period, I felt a sense of helplessness as many variables were outside my control. I was also used to frequent travel for in-person meetings — and that was no longer possible.” His mental wellness experience at Dell Technologies and his stint at WorkWell Leaders Singapore eventually prompted him to break out of his shell, proving the power of candid sharing.

Lessons for others: a blueprint for holistic change

Ng's counsel revolves around a holistic approach for companies seeking to replicate Dell Technologies’ success in promoting mental well-being. “Mental health support cannot happen in silos and must be woven into the company culture through employee policies, resources, and initiatives.”

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He has one final message for corporate leaders: "Be vulnerable and open with our own experiences to remove the stigma around mental health and encourage open conversations."