Poor physical and mental health is a root cause of unemployment.

The new Government has identified that action to improve health is part of the strategy to encourage people back into work. They recognise that poor pay, working conditions and job insecurity impact well-being, as well as economic productivity. While we often view work as a cause of stress, is it possible that being at work can boost your mental health?

What We Know About Work -related Ill Health

According to HSE data*, 17.1 million working days are lost due to employees being affected by stress, anxiety or depression. What’s more, the average person impacted by poor mental health takes 19.6 days of sick leave. Absenteeism is a cost that no employer can afford, so what can be done to address it?

I read plenty of reports about workforce absenteeism as a result of work pressures. And, there are many discussions on the negative impact of long hours, tight deadlines and poor managers on mental health. Yet, I also know that, in the right environment, individuals can thrive both mentally and physically.

“I was mentally and physically exhausted from work and never felt 100%. My boss was a workaholic. Calls late into the evening were a regular thing and there was no time to switch off. I have two boys, so weekends were packed with activities. I often worked on a Sunday evening in an attempt to keep on top of things. It was hard to let go of the salary and status, but my health was at stake. What a different experience in my new role! I am energised again, my skills are appreciated and I feel respected. I enjoy going in.” – JD

A Change of Workplace Culture

What makes a difference is the workplace culture. Let’s face it, we are all motivated, positive and healthy when we feel valued, able to apply skills and supported. We can all name managers, team leaders and colleagues who enabled us to thrive, along with those who made getting through each day a challenge. So, when we improve team dynamics, leadership skills and workplace culture, we help to boost everyone’s mental health.

“If I was offered a job in the city with twice my salary I wouldn’t take it. I’ve endured the commute to a high-pressured and competitive work environment and it’s so stressful. Now, I contribute to a great team, with a manager, who values my contribution and offers the flexibility to also enjoy family life. It’s changed my attitude and improved my health.” – LP

How Can Work Improve Mental Health?

A job in a workplace with a positive company culture can do a lot to benefit our well-being. It can provide us with:

A Sense of Achievement

When we are working, there is a sense of achievement. At the end of each day, we have contributed towards something. Furthermore, if we do well and work in a supportive environment, our achievements might also be recognised by colleagues, customers or managers. As a result, we gain a sense of purpose and self-worth.

Skill Development Opportunities

Starting any new job requires us to apply existing skills and learn new ones. Now, this can push us a little out of our comfort zone, yet it helps us to realise what we a capable of. Are you hesitant about putting yourself forward for new things? Let’s face it, many of us are. However, at work, you just have to get on with it! In a good working environment, your skills are noted and developed, helping you and the business to grow.

Positive Social Interactions

In a fair and supportive work environment, you are a valued part of the team. As belonging and inclusion are fundamental human needs, they are essential for our mental health. Even if you work from home, connections are formed with customers, colleagues and associates. Sometimes, these blossom into friendships.

Financial Independence

Let’s be honest, most of us are motivated to work because we need to earn a living. When we are paid a fair wage and have opportunities for promotion, there is an opportunity to gain financial independence. Earning an income gives us greater life choices and chances. It can prevent us from feeling trapped in a situation that is detrimental to our mental health.

A Sense of Identity

When you meet people, ‘Where do you work?’ or ‘What’s your job?’ is like to be one of the first questions asked. Your response can trigger further conversation, however, when you are unemployed, it can be a conversation stopper. That is because our job is part of our identity and for some people, status is crucial to their self-worth and mental well-being.

Routine & Structure

While I love switching off the alarm clock at the weekends, I know that having a daily routine is good for the body. Getting up and out aids productivity. What’s more, a daily routine is beneficial to natural bodily rhythms which help us to sleep. As a result of improved sleep patterns, we feel better and perform better.

Take Action to Boost Mental Health

To avoid the costs and disruption associated with absenteeism and high staff turnover, it’s good to understand how your team feel at work. An employee well-being audit gives a good overview of their current state of health. What’s more, it identifies specific areas of focus, including leadership, resilience or psychological safety. Let’s ensure your team are fit and well, so they can contribute to business success.

 

*https://www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/dayslost.htm