Work and Mental Health Disorders

For many people, work is an important part of life. It gives us money to live and feelings of purpose. But sometimes, mental health issues can make working tricky. Understanding the connection between work and mental health can help people create workplaces that promote happiness and success for all.

Work and mental health

Your job can have a major impact on your mental well-being. It can add to stress or serve as a source of satisfaction and growth. Here are some key aspects to consider:^1-3

• Work-related stress – Long hours, tight deadlines, and demanding duties can lead to stress. If not managed, this stress can worsen mental health disorders.
• Work-life balance – Striking a balance between work and personal life is essential for mental well-being. Working too much and neglecting time for yourself can negatively affect your mental health.
• Job satisfaction – Job satisfaction and accomplishment can improve mental well-being. Feeling valued and appreciated at work can have a positive impact on mental health.
• Workplace ties – Having good friendships with coworkers and bosses can make work enjoyable, and it helps you feel supported. But problems with coworkers, like fights or bullying, can make your mental health worse.

Mental health support in the workplace

When someone is happy at work, they are likely to be more productive. Governments and organizations are trying to ensure that jobs provide help and support to employees facing mental health problems. Examples include:^1,4

• US Department of Labor – According to the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), people with mental health disorders have the right to accommodations or changes at work that will help them do their jobs better. This law makes sure they can work while getting the help and support they need.
• World Health Organization (WHO) – The WHO emphasizes addressing mental health in the workplace to promote overall well-being. The WHO stresses the need to create healthy work environments. The WHO also promotes access to mental health services for workers.

How employers can promote mental health

Employers have a crucial role in creating mentally healthy workplaces. When they prioritize mental well-being, job satisfaction and productivity improve.⁵

• Mental health policies – Employers have the power to put into action rules about mental health that focus on making sure workers have what they need. These rules might include offering an employee assistance program and encouraging work-life balance.
• Education and training – Employers can offer mental health awareness training to employees. This training helps people recognize signs of mental health issues in themselves and their colleagues. Training can also promote empathy and insight into what others are going through.
• Stress management – Stress and mindfulness workshops can teach employees how to handle stress better. This can make it easier for them to deal with stress at work.
• Workplace flexibility – Offering options like working from home or working flexible hours can help improve workers’ mental health.

Promoting your own mental health at work

You can promote good mental health at work by adopting self-care practices and talking openly about any concerns you have.^2,5

Self-care

Things you can do to take care of yourself at work include:⁵

• Practicing stress-management techniques
• Keeping a healthy work-life balance
• Seeking help when needed

Open communication

Some people find that talking to their bosses and coworkers about their mental health issues can help them feel more supported. But share only what you are comfortable with. Some people find talking about it hard.²

Addressing stigma

One of the biggest challenges in addressing mental health in the workplace is overcoming stigma. Stigma can prevent people from seeking help and talking about their mental health concerns. Employers can play a crucial role in reducing stigma by fostering a culture of acceptance and support.⁵

It is essential for everyone involved to pay attention to mental health at work. Laws in the United States and worldwide help employees with mental health conditions get help and support. Working together to reduce stigma can lead to a more healthy, productive, and inclusive work environment for all.⁵