October 10 marks World Mental Health Day, with the aim of raising awareness of mental health issues and mobilizing efforts to support those facing them. This year, the theme of the campaign is “It’s time to prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace”.
Mental health and its impact on the work environment
According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), safe and healthy work environments can act as a protective factor for mental health. Unhealthy conditions, such as stigma, discrimination and exposure to risks such as harassment and other poor working conditions, can pose significant risks that affect mental health, overall quality of life and, consequently, participation or productivity at work.
Mental health problems have a direct impact on workplaces by increasing absenteeism, reducing productivity, and increasing health care costs. However, stigma and lack of mental health awareness persist as barriers to addressing mental health in the workplace.
Sixty percent of the world’s population is engaged in some form of work. Therefore, urgent action is needed to ensure that work environments prevent mental health risks and protect mental health at work.
Employers and co-workers can be agents of change by combating stigma and encouraging a conversation about mental health. They can also learn to identify signs of common mental health problems, such as depression, and encourage colleagues who may be struggling to seek help.
Nine key messages on mental health in the workplace
PAHO recommends taking into account the following key messages.
- Mental health and work are closely linked.
A supportive work environment promotes mental health by providing purpose and stability. However, poor working conditions can harm mental well-being, reducing both job satisfaction and productivity.
- Workers face risks to their mental health.
There are a number of mental health risks that workers may face, including discrimination, poor working conditions, or limited autonomy. Low-paying or insecure jobs often lack adequate protections, leaving workers in these jobs more exposed to psychological risks.
- Mental health significantly affects people.
Lack of support for people with mental health problems can negatively affect their self-confidence, enjoyment at work, ability to work, absences, and ability to obtain employment. Family members are similarly affected.
- It also has broader impacts on work and society.
Poor mental health can lead to decreased performance, absenteeism and increased staff turnover. Depression and anxiety alone result in the loss of approximately 12 billion work days each year.
- Stigma creates barriers to employment.
Stigma and discrimination often prevent people with mental health problems from seeking help or finding and maintaining employment. Reducing discrimination in the workplace through awareness, training and participation of people living with mental health problems creates healthier and more inclusive work environments.
- Workers need support to participate and thrive at work.
Employers should implement reasonable accommodations to support workers with mental health problems in the workplace. This means, for example, organizing regular support meetings, scheduling frequent breaks, gradually reengaging workers in tasks, and providing storage for medications.
- Managers should be trained to support mental health in the workplace.
Employers should provide training for managers to recognize and address workplace stressors. Trained managers can effectively support their teams and foster a healthier and more supportive work environment.
- Societal action and collaboration are essential.
Governments, employers and organizations must work together to create policies that prevent mental health risks, promote wellness and create workplaces where mental health care is prioritized.
- Be sure to take care of your own mental health.
While governments and employers have the primary responsibility to protect and promote mental health at work, individuals can take steps to support their own well-being. Learn stress management techniques and be aware of changes in your mental health. If necessary, seek support from a trusted friend, family member, colleague, supervisor or health professional.
