Like many other social classes, those who work for the homes of others have entirely different social experiences in the workplace. Sometimes, their mistreatment and dehumanization can have dire consequences on their mental health.
House Help
House help are otherwise known as domestic workers. They are people who work within the household of their employers. House help can consist of a nanny, a maid, a driver, a cook, etc. In general, they have a variety of responsibilities within the household. For generations, domestic workers and house help have been people that were immensely trusted in the house. Employers have trusted them with their belongings, with their food, and even with raising their children. A person with such a large responsibility should be treated with equal respect.
House Help and Mental Health
Oftentimes, house help are very mistreated and neglected by their employers. You may find cases where the house maid is required to eat leftovers on a different table than that of their employers. Other times, a domestic worker may be yelled at or even beaten. Studies have shown that house help that are subjected to such treatment are very prone to mental health illnesses such as depression, anxiety, stress, and burnout. Unfortunately, there are not even enough sources that talk about this issue as much as it should be talked about. These domestic workers are human beings like any other human being, regardless of their line of work, social class, background, ethnicity, etc.
What can you change?
First and foremost, speak about the problem. Raise awareness about the issue and make sure that people know that mistreating house help is wrong. Observe those around you and call them out on their wrongdoings. Seek acts of kindness and make sure to always start with yourself. Make sure that you treat them just like you would treat any other family member in the house. Remember to always thank them for what they are doing for you on a daily basis. Remember to ask about them and check up on them and their families back home. Change starts from within.