What is mental health?
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) defines mental health as “the capacity of each and every one of us to feel, think, and act in ways that improve our ability to enjoy life and cope with the challenges we face” (1). It is nevertheless important to note that mental health is not limited to the absence of mental disorders (2).
Mental health in the workplace
There are various factors that can influence mental health, including individual, relational, and genetic factors, among others. However, employment and financial circumstances remain important factors. Working adults spend a large part of their lives at work, and the workplace can be a source of stress for many people, which can lead to mental health problems. Approximately 70% of Canadian workers report that their work has an impact on their mental health (4). Poor mental health can have several consequences. Among the main ones are absenteeism, meaning that people are frequently absent from work; presenteeism, meaning that people come to work but are unable to be fully productive; as well as employees resigning because of difficulties they experience at work (5).
Risk factors
Although many factors can influence mental health, such as personal, family, or educational circumstances, work can also have a significant impact. Certain aspects of the workplace can increase stress and have negative effects on mental health. These factors may include:
- fear of losing one’s job or not having job stability;
- unclear instructions or tasks;
- an excessive workload;
- lack of support or recognition;
- not having enough freedom to organize one’s work;
- lack of communication or information;
- lack of flexibility from the employer to help employees balance work and personal life;
- conflicts or poor relationships with colleagues;
- psychological harassment (5).
How can employers help?
Employers can implement various measures to promote a healthier work environment. For example:
- clearly explain the tasks and responsibilities of each employee;
- ensure that the workload is reasonable;
- provide opportunities for training and professional development;
- encourage the development of positive relationships among employees;
- intervene when conflicts arise and seek solutions;
- recognize employees’ efforts and achievements fairly and at the appropriate time (6).
What can we do to improve our mental health?
Employees can also take certain steps to take care of their mental health at work. For example:
- take scheduled breaks and use this time to rest;
- participate in wellness programs offered in the workplace, when available;
- take time to interact with colleagues;
- ask colleagues for support during periods of work that are more stressful or difficult;
- use different strategies to better manage stress;
- avoid using alcohol or drugs to try to manage work-related stress;
- speak with their employer, supervisor, union representative, or a trusted person when experiencing an unfair or difficult situation;
- seek help from a health professional when necessary;
- learn about available resources, such as the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), when it is offered in the workplace (5).
Conclusion
In conclusion, taking care of mental health in the workplace is important for both employees and the organization. A workplace where employees feel supported and respected can contribute to their well-being and have positive effects on the organization’s functioning. Promoting good mental health can therefore help create a more pleasant, healthy, and productive work environment.
Need support to promote well-being in the workplace?
Creating a healthy workplace also means providing access to the right resources. Objectif Emploi supports organizations and their employees through its Employee Assistance Program (EAP), offering confidential support to help employees navigate a range of personal and professional challenges.
We also offer services designed to help organizations support their teams and foster a healthier, more positive work environment.
Discover our services for employers and contact our team to find the support that best meets your organization’s needs.
Sources
- https://www.canada.ca/fr/sante-publique/sujets/sante-mentale-et-bien-etre/promotion-sante-mentale.html
- https://www.inspq.qc.ca/sante-mentale/definition
- https://www.erudit.org/en/journals/smq/2017-v42-n1-smq03101/1040247ar.pdf
- https://cpa.ca/fr/psychology-works-fact-sheet-mental-health-and-the-workplace/
- https://www.quebec.ca/sante/sante-mentale/s-informer-sur-sante-mentale-et-troubles-mentaux/favoriser-bonne-sante-mentale/sante-mentale-au-travail
- https://www.canada.ca/fr/sante-publique/services/sante-mentale-travail.html
