16-06-2025
10 reasons why employees are scared to talk to HR and how AI may help bridge the gap
Burnout, fatigue, or juggling personal commitments while also managing work responsibilities can feel like walking a tightrope. There may be times when everything may feel mentally overwhelming. While communicating these needs to HR, perhaps to reduce the workload or maybe request flexibility with WFH (work from home), could help ease the situation, still, employees choose to hold back and hesitate to open up, continuing to endure in silence. But AI is silently tipping the scales in their favour, creating a judgment-free space.
ALSO READ: Manager's guide to employee wellbeing: 5 warning signs of emotional distress to watch out for at work
HT Lifestyle reached out to experts to understand why some employees may not be able to open up about their personal or mental health issues, and what can be done about it.
Dr Rajiv Mehta, Vice-Chairperson of Psychiatry at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, shared with HT Lifestyle a few psychological reasons why employees may hesitate to reach out to HR at work:
He said, 'Many Employees often find it problematic to discuss difficulties and problems with their HR due to various reasons. However, the perception develops based on the experience of other employees and also on the intensity and frequency of sharing the difficulties.'
Dr Rajiv Mehta listed out 10 reasons:
Anonymous AI-powered support tools, however, are quietly changing the landscape in modern workplaces, sliding into the dm of corporate culture and bringing in new possibilities. These tools help tackle sensitive situations more strategically, cutting through the silence.
Vikas Kakkar, CEO and Founder of shared with HT Lifestyle how AI chatbots offer a non-judgmental, confidential space for employees to open up.
He said, 'As the founder of an employee engagement platform, I believe that traditional surveys and open forums frequently fail in today's high-pressure workplace. When the stakes are high, people are reluctant to be completely honest. But anonymous AI-powered platforms give businesses a more accurate sense of workplace satisfaction, burnout, mental health, and even problems like bias or toxicity. The goal is to scale human connection, not to replace it. AI chatbots are being used by industries like tech, BFSI, healthcare, and education to improve employee support. Beyond mere convenience, these tools seek to create judgment-free spaces where employees can freely express their opinions.'
While traditional surveys or forums may not offer much transparency, anonymous AI-driven platforms help organisations listen better and make it easier for employees to open up, acting as an efficient bridge.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
