Challenges faced with integrating and implementing mental health awareness and policies by occupational health practitioners in Malta

Abstract

This qualitative research study explores the challenges faced by occupational health practitioners (OHPs) in Malta when integrating and implementing mental health awareness programs and policies within organisational management systems. Through in-depth interviews with eight senior OHPs from diverse industries across Malta, this study identifies the key barriers that prevent organisations from adopting comprehensive mental health initiatives. The findings reveal three primary themes that create implementation challenges: cultural and stigma-related barriers, workforce diversity issues and implementation and integration difficulties. Particularly significant are cultural factors, including gender-based stigma and traditional values, which interact with organisational limitations to create complex barriers for practitioners. Results indicate that company size significantly impacts mental health program implementation, with larger organisations generally offering more structured initiatives while smaller entities struggle with resource allocation. Malta's increasingly diverse workforce presents additional challenges related to cultural differences, language barriers, and varying expectations of workplace support. The study also highlights the critical need for specialised mental health training for OHPs, who often feel underprepared to effectively address these complex issues. These findings contribute to the understanding of mental health implementation challenges in the context of small island states with rapidly changing workforce demographics. The research concludes with practical recommendations for OHPs, organisations, and policymakers, including: developing culturally sensitive initiatives, allocating adequate resources, providing specialised training, fostering supportive organisational cultures, strengthening national-level support, promoting collaboration among stakeholders, and conducting further research to address the evolving needs of Malta's diverse workforce.