Catatonic from Stress: A Workplace Crisis in China
Chinese social media is abuzz with news of the mental and physical breakdown of a young woman, following the intense scolding she received from her boss. The woman named Li, who is in her 20s, has sunk into a ‘Catatonic Stupor”- she is so shocked that she is unresponsive to the extent that she is unable to eat, drink or respond to others. These are the marring effects following a severe warning by her superior at work.
The Aftermath of Workplace Stress
As reported by the media, Li’s health considerably worsened as her body went limp and she is unable to support her head without a pillow – these are the repercussions of extreme psychological withdrawal. She carries out the daily basic motions of her life with constant reminders, assistance, and care, from her family, to use the restroom, etc.
Li’s Current Condition and Diagnosis
Li is undergoing treatment at the Zhengzhou Eighth People’s Hospital and under the care of Dr. Jia Dehuan, who states that “She resembles a ‘wooden’ figure, completely immobilized.” Her condition is diagnosed as catatonic stupor (psychomotor disorder) which is a severe manifestation of depression, often linked to prolonged emotional distress and feelings of helplessness.
The Larger Issue: Mental Health in the Workplace
The local news reports that over a month ago Li was admonished by her team leader, which had such a shattering impact on her, that she was under tremendous mental stress which led to her current health condition. Li has accepted that she is in a delicate state and is working on managing her mental health.
Users on Douyin, China’s popular social media platform, have shown empathy towards Li. Others have pointed out that owing to the abnormality of the Chinese job market, quitting an unpleasant job is not a feasible option for many.
Yet again concerns regarding mental health in the Chinese workplace have arisen. As per a study carried out in 2022, the Chinese Psychological Society has found that
- About 5% of employees experienced workplace depression
- 80% of employees reported feelings of agitation
- 60% of employees felt anxious
- Almost 40% of employees experienced depressive symptoms
Meanwhile, social media platforms like Douban, etc., have posts where people share stories of long working hours, high demands, and low wages that prevent many from leaving unsatisfactory positions.
This is indeed a very serious matter that requires a permanent solution so that work pressure can be easily managed without resulting in such extreme psychological outcomes.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
