The Overlooked Importance of Psychological Wellbeing in the Workplace: A Vital Role for Occupational Health
In today's fast-paced world, the importance of physical health is widely recognised and prioritised. We invest in gym memberships, watch our diets, and constantly strive for better physical wellbeing.
However, the equally significant aspect of our overall health, our psychological wellbeing, often takes a backseat, particularly in the context of the workplace. This oversight can have serious consequences on individual performance, employee morale, and overall workplace productivity. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of psychological factors in the workplace, which are frequently forgotten over physical wellbeing, and how occupational health plays a crucial role in addressing this issue.
The Psychological Toll of Modern Work
The workplace can be a source of significant stress and anxiety for many individuals. The demands of the job, interpersonal conflicts, long working hours, tight deadlines, and the constant pressure to perform at a high level can take a toll on one's mental health. Unfortunately, this toll is often underestimated, resulting in under performance, decreased job satisfaction, and even mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
Why Psychological Wellbeing Matters
Employee Engagement: Engaged employees are more committed, motivated, and productive. Psychological wellbeing is a key driver of employee engagement, as individuals who feel psychologically safe and supported in their workplace are more likely to be engaged with their work.
Creativity and Innovation: A positive psychological state can foster creativity and innovation, as employees feel more comfortable sharing their ideas, taking risks, and thinking outside the box. In contrast, a stressed or anxious employee is more likely to stick to the status quo, hindering the company's growth and development.
Physical Health: Mental health and physical health are intertwined. High levels of workplace stress can lead to physical health problems such as heart disease, obesity, and a weakened immune system. Addressing psychological wellbeing can help prevent these physical health issues.
Employee Retention: High turnover rates are costly for companies. Employees who feel supported in their psychological wellbeing are more likely to stay with their employer. This can reduce recruitment and training costs and contribute to a more stable, experienced workforce.
The Role of Occupational Health
Occupational health plays a vital role in addressing the psychological wellbeing of employees. Here are some key aspects of how occupational health can help:
Risk Assessment: Occupational health professionals can assess workplace factors that may contribute to psychological stress, such as excessive workload, poor work-life balance, or inadequate support systems.
Stress Management: Occupational health specialists can provide guidance on stress management techniques, coping strategies, and work-related stress prevention.
Education and Training: Providing employees and management with education and training on the importance of psychological wellbeing, mental health first aid, and creating a supportive work environment is crucial.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): EAPs, often offered through occupational health services, can provide employees with resources and support for addressing personal and workplace-related issues affecting their mental health. However, they are sometimes seen as a global solution and should not be used in isolation or as a solve-all.
Promoting Work-Life Balance: Occupational health professionals can work with management to promote work-life balance, encouraging flexible working arrangements, and implementing policies that support employee wellbeing.
While physical health remains an important focus in our lives, we should not forget the equally significant role of psychological wellbeing, especially in the workplace. Neglecting the psychological factors in the workplace can have serious repercussions for both employees and organisations. Occupational health services are crucial in addressing this issue, helping to create a work environment that promotes psychological health and, in turn, benefits overall workplace performance and productivity. It's time to recognize and prioritise the psychological wellbeing of employees as a fundamental element of a successful and healthy workplace.
If you would like further support on how to improve psychological wellbeing in your organisation, please get in touch.
