Work, And Your Mental Health
For individuals dealing with mental health conditions, securing decent and meaningful work can significantly contribute to their recovery and overall sense of inclusion in society. It has the potential to improve not only their confidence but also their social functioning, allowing them to engage more fully in the community and build supportive relationships.
At work, psychosocial risks to mental health may arise from job content, work schedules, workplace characteristics, and career development opportunities. Learn more from the World Health Organization here.
These risks can include:
- under-use of skills or being unqualified;
- excessive workloads or understaffing;
- long or inflexible hours;
- lack of control over job design;
- unsafe working conditions;
- negative organizational culture;
- limited support from colleagues;
- harassment or bullying;
- discrimination;
- unclear job roles;
- job insecurity and inadequate pay;
- conflicting home/work demands.
Protecting and promoting mental health at work is crucial to creating a supportive and productive workplace environment. It involves strengthening the capacities of employees and management alike to recognize and effectively act upon various mental health conditions that may arise within the workplace. This is particularly important for individuals who hold supervisory responsibilities, such as managers, who play a key role in fostering a culture of awareness and support.
By equipping managers with the necessary tools and knowledge, organizations can cultivate an environment where mental well-being is prioritized, thereby enhancing overall workplace morale and productivity.
