Mental Health Issues In The Workforce

By Heidi

Working in high stress environments causes unnecessary strain on workers mental health.  This has become a problem in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States.  Hours being spent in the office for people in the work force are becoming more than ever.  With the increase in hours, come no increase in compensating for workers added stress.  According to the Huffington Post, stress levels from 1983 to 2009 have increased by 18 percent in women and 24 percent in men.

Mental Health has just recently become a priority among the workplace.  Mental health used to be a problem that was pushed under the rug, but is finally starting to get some of the attention it deserves.  Companies are beginning to offer mental health treatment coverage, and counseling.  Mental health issues such as stress, and other serious ailments cause decrease in work productivity.  A survey done by Employee Benefit news magazine discovered that mental illness is the main cause of absence from work, and decreased productivity.  Reducing stress during the work day can result in high productivity in workers.  It allows them to get more sleep at night due to lack of stress, which allows them to be refreshed and ready to work throughout the long work day.

Companies would benefit greatly in caring about their workers well being in a various number of ways.  Businesses benefit greatly in their workers putting in their utmost effort.  So, why do some companies still not do everything they can to ensure their workers are productive?  Doing something as little as limiting stress throughout the day can make a world of difference in the work force.

Cites:

 "Work Stress Wreaks Havoc On Blood Sugar Levels, Ups Risk Of Diabetes." Medical Daily. 2014. Web. 21 Feb. 2016.