Work is not solely a means of income; it forms our identity and imparts a sense of purpose to our lives. However, amidst these merits, it may also become a hotbed for various mental health concerns if employees confront continuous psychological hazards within their work environment.
A range of factors can spark these concerns, including:
- Overwhelming work-related stress and unrealistic demands
- Inadequate emotional support from colleagues and superiors
- Strained workplace relationships, marked by bullying or unjust treatment
- Unclear role definitions leading to overextended job responsibilities
- Incidents of workplace discrimination and racism
- Poorly administered organisational changes
- Lack of fairness in organisational procedures and policies
- Unfavourable environmental conditions at the workplace
- Feelings of isolation in remote or solitary work circumstances
- Exposure to violent incidents or traumatic events
These workplace stressors, if severe and sustained, can become major contributors to long-term mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. The ramifications of such work-related stress can be deep and far-reaching. Research indicates a correlation between high workplace stress and several adverse outcomes, including:
- Increased frequency of unplanned absences and sick leaves
- Higher staff turnover rates
- Increased instances of withdrawal and presenteeism, where employees are physically present but unproductive
- A decline in the quality of work and overall productivity
Given the significant impact of mental health on workforce wellbeing and productivity, it’s vital for organisations to foster an environment that’s not just physically safe, but also psychologically conducive. Businesses that fail to manage these risks might have to bear substantial human and financial costs.
Creating a mentally healthy workplace demands systematic effort. Businesses must prioritise their employees’ psychological health and safety as much as their physical safety. In turn, this approach will not only prevent mental health deterioration but also foster a healthier, more resilient, and more productive workforce.
References: https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/topic/mental-health
