How corporate culture is failing young professionals

A young CA professional who passed away due to workrelated stress is a tragic reminder of the high pressure and demands many young professionals face.

- GOURAV VALLABH

In fact, a recent report by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) revealed that over 9.5% of all suicides in India were by salaried professionals. It’s a concerning issue that needs immediate attention.

The rising tide of deaths linked to professional stress calls for urgent intervention from employers, policymakers, and fellow human beings. This crisis cannot be attributed to a single cause, as it stems from a culture of unsustainable pressure. We will discuss significant reasons for and remedies for this untenable pressure.

Competition in today’s corporate world has become stifling, with firms trying to extract as much output as possible from a reduced workforce. This has created a harmful environment that strips the workplace of its humanity, turning it into a battlefield where individuals aren’t merely competing for promotions or pay raises but fighting for their emotional well-being. The competition is tough, and young professionals are often unprepared for the stress of corporate life. Schools and universities focus on technical skills but neglect emotional intelligence, resilience, and stress management. Companies hiring fresh graduates often push them to their limits without providing necessary support, leaving many feeling lost and overwhelmed.