This year's theme for World Mental Health Day is also about raising awareness regarding mental stress at workplaces. According to World Health Organization, "work stress" is defined as the mental strain due to work demands that exceed an employee's capability to cope. In simpler terms, it refers to the stress that is related to the workplace, which surpasses an individual's ability to manage it effectively. While everyone possesses natural abilities to handle stress, these abilities vary based on personal experiences and the environment. This leads to different levels of stress and coping mechanisms in the workplace.
Stress in work is mostly seen in some activities, for instance, police, military, as there are so many uncertainties associated with them that stress may prevail. In general, a big increase in the mental pressure caused by both inner and outer stimuli is usually reported. Factors usually beyond the worker's control - the nature of the work required, dangerous environment, or situations that are far from being clarified - usually become the source of stress at the workplace. Other factors, for instance family distress, may also compound the problem. Organisational discrimination at the workplace based on any factor, be it gender or race, further adds to the stress. According to an Indian study nearly two-thirds of the employed workers in India have workplace discrimination and stress.
The main causes of stress can be broadly categorized into external and internal factors. Poor working conditions, high-risk jobs, and tasks requiring extreme precision are all external factors. Internal factors include personal limitations such as mental health issues or physical ailments that make it harder for an individual to cope with workplace stress. For instance, depression, anxiety, or chronic illness makes it hard for employees to function at their best.
Studies have shown that a significant portion of workers experience workplace discrimination and other stress-related issues. Addressing this requires both personal and organizational efforts. While external pressures can often feel out of an individual’s control, recognizing and addressing personal coping mechanisms can reduce stress. It’s essential to identify mental health issues early and to implement strategies to reduce stress in the workplace, which could range from managerial support to offering psychological resources.
Mental health challenges linked to stress can lead to serious health issues, including anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, high blood pressure, and even heart problems. These health concerns can affect employees' productivity and well-being. Moreover, stress can also have an emotional toll, damaging personal relationships and contributing to overall dissatisfaction in life. As these issues become more prevalent, addressing them is not just the responsibility of the employee, but also of the employer.
Organizational strategies to mitigate workplace stress include creating policies that promote a healthy work environment. This involves establishing clear communication channels, providing mental health resources, and fostering a culture of support. Additionally, workplace training programs that educate employees about their rights, stress management, and conflict resolution can play a significant role in reducing stress. Thus, it is important to allow employees to identify their stressors and seek professional counseling or peer support groups when necessary.
In conclusion, mental stress in the workplace is a growing concern that requires active intervention. Both employees and employers need to work together to create environments where mental health is prioritized. Addressing this issue involves not only understanding its causes but also developing practical solutions. With proper awareness, support systems, and training, the workplace can become a healthier and more productive space for all.