Work-related Stress and Mental Health

By Cass Jacoby, RCS Reporter.  

Promote mental health in your workplace. 

The American Psychological Association found in a survey that more than half of Americans are seeking mental health treatment over the past year. Many people struggled with mental health during quarantine and had to find new ways to cope and healthy outlets to manage their stresses. Coming out of the pandemic, we all have a much more nuanced understanding of how the past year has affected our mental health and the wellbeing of employees. Many of us are still facing challenges from the pandemic that can be overwhelming and stressful. Thus, it's important to understand the value of mental health and to provide resources that support mental health. 

OSHA defines job stress as the harmful responses that occur when job requirements do not match the capabilities, resources, or needs of the worker. Job stress can, in turn, lead to poor health and even injury. Work-related stress is a significant health and safety issue.  

The CDC describes the symptoms of stress as changes in energy, interests or appetite, difficulty sleeping or making decisions, physical reactions from headaches to skin rashes, increased substance abuse and intense negative emotions. 

Workplace stress is an oft-neglected factor that impairs employee health and productivity as well as contributes significantly to a decline in a company's overall success according to studies. Employers should begin to tackle this worrisome concern to create a healthier, safer and more productive work atmosphere. 

A recent survey by Northwestern National Life revealed that 40% of workers reported that their jobs were extremely stressful. It’s important for employers to address and reduce excessive workplace stress. Here are some actions recommended by the CDC that employers have implemented to reduce excessive workplace stress and promote better mental health for their employees:  

• Make mental health tools and resources available to your employees. 

• Offer health insurance that has no or low out-of-pocket costs for therapy and mental health medications. 

• Teach your employees about the signs and symptoms of poor mental health and where to find help. 

• Provide free lifestyle coaching or self-management programs. 

• Host workshops that address stress management, such as meditation. 

• Segment off a space in the office that is designated as a quiet area for relating activities. 

• Train your managers to recognize the signs of stress and depression in team members and how to support and connect their coworkers with mental health professionals. 

• Give your employees spaces to participate in discussions about job stress and how to find solutions for it. 

If any of your employees are in crisis, there are plenty of resources to help them cope and to support them. They can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at any time to speak with someone and get support. For confidential support available 24/7 for everyone in the United States, call 1-800-273-8255. 

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