At Work but Not Well: Unpacking Mental Health Challenges in the Offices
Work-related stress or mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of position within the organization. Work-related stress is a developing problem that has an impact not only on individual health and well-being, but also on organizational productivity.
Work-related stress occurs when work demands of various forms and combinations surpass a person’s capacity and ability to cope. Although stress is mostly a psychological experience, it can also have an impact on physical health.
Work is an important element of our lives. It is where we spend the majority of our time, where we may have the greatest contact with others, where we earn our living, and where we occasionally make new acquaintances.
Having a rewarding career benefits one’s mental health and overall well-being. People with mental illnesses frequently conceal their disease for fear of stigma when seeking or maintaining employment. Stigma and a lack of awareness about mental health issues in the workplace continue to be barriers to equality.
According to the statistics given, almost 60% of the world population is in work. All workers have the right to a safe and healthy environment at work. Work can protect mental health.
Decent work supports good mental health by providing, a livelihood, a sense of confidence, purpose and achievement, an opportunity for positive relationships and inclusion in a community and a platform for structured routines, among many other benefits.
For people with mental health conditions, decent work can contribute to recovery and inclusion, improve confidence and social functioning.
Workplace mental health in Kenya is becoming more widely acknowledged as a key issue affecting employees in both official and informal sectors.
Many employees endure stress, anxiety, and burnout as a result of heavy workloads, long hours, and pressure to fulfill performance goals. While awareness of mental health has increased in recent years, there is still a gap between knowing the problem and actively treating it, leaving many employees to deal with stress alone.
Poor mental wellness has an influence not just on the individual but also on productivity, team dynamics, and overall organizational performance.
