Incident highlights mental health challenges in China’s workplaces

In a distressing incident from Henan, China, a young woman named Li reportedly entered a catatonic state following a reprimand from her team leader, becoming what some reports have termed a “stiff wooden person.” The incident has sparked widespread discussion across Chinese social media platforms, with many pointing to the impact of workplace stress on mental health.

Catatonic response to reprimand

According to Hongxing News, Li, in her 20s, became unresponsive after the incident at her workplace a month ago. Her family noted that she had stopped eating, drinking, speaking, or even responding to physical cues. If her family removed a supporting pillow, her head would hang mid-air, highlighting her lack of motor control. Li’s condition deteriorated to the point where family members needed to remind her to perform basic functions, like using the bathroom.

Medical diagnosis: catatonic stupor

Dr. Jia Dehuan of Zhengzhou Eighth People’s Hospital diagnosed Li with catatonic stupor, a severe symptom of depression. “She is unresponsive to her surroundings, essentially in a wooden state,” said Dr. Jia, explaining that this condition severely affects a person’s awareness and reaction to external stimuli. The Cleveland Clinic defines catatonic stupor as a state in which individuals “react very little or not at all to their surroundings,” often in response to extreme stress or emotional trauma.

Li’s introverted personality may have compounded her condition, as she struggled to discuss her experiences with those around her. Reports indicate that she acknowledged her mental state and has expressed a desire to manage her emotional well-being more effectively in the future.

Public reaction on social media

The case quickly gained traction on Chinese social media, with users expressing sympathy and frustration. “She had been torturing herself due to her boss’s actions,” one Douyin user commented, while another advised, “If your job is too demanding, it’s better to leave rather than suffer in silence.” A third user remarked on the difficulty of finding alternative employment, especially when experiencing similar work-related stress.

Mental health challenges in China’s workforce

Li’s case brings attention to broader workplace mental health issues in China. A survey conducted by the Chinese Psychological Society found that 4.8% of employees reported experiencing workplace depression. Additionally, according to Shangguan News, nearly 80% of employees reported feelings of agitation, 60% experienced anxiety, and 40% showed symptoms of depression. These findings underscore the urgent need for mental health support and understanding within Chinese workplaces.