Factors determining workplace mental health

Workplace mental health is key to everyone’s well-being. Yet, mental wellness is often overlooked. Men often face societal pressure to appear strong, unemotional, and stoic. This expectation can make it challenging for them to open and seek support. By recognising these unique pressures and implementing mental health management strategies, workplaces can foster an encouraging and inclusive environment for all employees. 

The inherent stigma surrounding mental health among Indians is one of the biggest hurdles men face in sharing their hardships. For many, talking about mental health in the workplace can feel like a gesture of weakness. Conventional gender roles often discourage men from expressing vulnerability, preventing them from seeking the required help at the right time. It also leads to a lack of support. 

Factors determining workplace mental health 

Workplace mental health pertains to the psychological well-being of employees within the work ambience. It is a multi-dimensional concept encompassing various factors that affect the mental well-being of employees. These factors include: 

Working sphere 

Factors such as ease of access to the office space, ventilation, lighting conditions, noise levels, and the cubicle’s ergonomic design can directly influence employees’ mental wellness. 

Excessive workload 

Do you often feel overwhelmed by heavy workloads, high expectations, or tight deadlines? Balancing multiple responsibilities can elevate stress and anxiety levels. Reflect on your workload and implement strategies to manage it better. 

Job security 

In today’s economy, job security can be a significant source of stress. Do you feel secure in your position? Discussing your career paths and concerns with a supervisor or mentor can help alleviate uncertainties. 

Work-life balance 

Managing a healthy balance between work and personal life is crucial for maintaining mental health. The pressure of reaching corporate targets makes employees compromise their work-life balance. It impacts their mental health and can lead to severe adverse physical outcomes. 

Organisational culture 

Positive relationships with colleagues and an inclusive culture can foster better mental health. However, a lack of coordination and collaboration among team members and thriving on a poor corporate culture with inefficient leadership can aggressively damage mental health. 

 

Indicators of workplace stress 

• Performance decline 

Stress can decrease productivity, focus, and overall work quality, affecting individual and team outcomes. This may manifest as missed deadlines, decreased project enthusiasm, or increased errors. 

• Anxiety and depression 

Work-related pressures can intensify mental health issues like anxiety and depression. High-stress environments can further escalate symptoms. 

• Workplace stressors 

Various factors can contribute to workplace stress in men, such as feeling undervalued, inadequate compensation, overwhelming workloads, and limited growth opportunities. Moreover, stress may affect your body through increased heart rates, muscle tension, gastrointestinal issues, headaches, and immune system suppression. 

Stress may also lead to overeating or cravings for high-calorie foods, resulting in weight gain. Conversely, it can also cause appetite loss, leading to unintended weight loss. Addressing these effects of stress on your body through support and recognition can play a significant role in enhancing workplace mental wellness. 

Conclusion 

Understanding these effects highlights the importance of managing stress for overall health and well-being.