Have You Ever Felt This Way?
Your body feels fine, but you still feel drained, lacking the energy to do anything. This could be a sign that you're overlooking one of the most critical aspects of your health—mental well-being. While we can't see it, mental health affects every part of our lives. Many of us might struggle with mental health issues without even realizing it. As World Mental Health Day approaches, it’s a good time to reflect on how we can better care for our minds and understand why mental health matters so much.
What is Mental Health?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is a state of well-being that allows us to handle life’s everyday stresses, realize our potential, work productively, and contribute to our communities. It’s a fundamental part of overall health, both personally and practically. When mental health declines, it can lead to conditions such as anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder—three of the most common mental health disorders worldwide. Shockingly, 1 in 8 people globally are affected by a mental health condition, and many don’t have access to adequate care. Even more alarming is the fact that 15% of working-age adults may be living with mental health issues without being fully aware of it.
Psychosocial Risks
Mental health is shaped by many factors, especially in the workplace. These risks—often called psychosocial risks—can include excessive workloads, unreasonable work pace, or understaffing. Other common workplace issues that affect mental well-being include:- Long, unsocial, or inflexible hours
- Lack of control over job roles or responsibilities
- Unsafe or poor physical working conditions
- Toxic organizational culture
- Limited support from colleagues or authoritarian supervision
- Violence, harassment, or bullying
- Discrimination or exclusion
- Job insecurity, low pay, or lack of career growth
- Conflicting demands between work and home life
These challenges not only impact an individual’s mental health but can also negatively affect productivity and the workplace environment as a whole.
How to Protect Your Mental Health at Work
Taking proactive steps to safeguard your mental well-being at work is essential in preventing burnout and reducing stress. Start by setting clear boundaries between work and personal life—avoid checking emails or working outside of office hours when possible. Prioritize self-care by incorporating regular breaks into your day to rest and recharge, and ensure you're getting enough sleep, exercise, and proper nutrition. Learning to delegate tasks and communicate openly with supervisors about workloads can help manage expectations and reduce overwhelming stress. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or breathing exercises during high-pressure moments can also be incredibly beneficial. Lastly, don’t hesitate to seek support, whether from colleagues, mentors, or a mental health professional, if you start feeling overwhelmed. Addressing mental health proactively can create a healthier, more balanced work environment.