In many occupations, particularly in frontline roles such as healthcare, education, and customer service, employees are expected to manage and display specific emotions to meet workplace expectations. IMH’s Adj A/Prof Lee Cheng, Clinical Director for the Office of Population Health, highlighted that while emotional labour can enhance service quality, prolonged and unmanaged emotional suppression may lead to emotional dissonance, fatigue, and burnout.

To reduce the psychological toll, individuals can adopt emotion regulation strategies such as mindfulness, seeking social support, setting boundaries, and improving emotional self-awareness. Organisations should also provide appropriate training, supportive systems, and a conducive work environment. When emotional labour begins to impact mental well-being, professional support should be sought.