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In October, a Focus on Mental Health at Work
As autumn tradition dictates, thematic months follow one another, and in October, it is our mental well-being that is highlighted. After Pink October, dedicated to breast cancer prevention, it is time to focus our attention on mental health. In France, Switzerland, and many other European countries, conferences and roundtables are multiplying to destigmatize this topic, which is still too often ignored.
While well-being at work is more readily promoted, psychological distress in the professional sphere remains a taboo. Although many companies invest in well-being programs, aware that fulfilled employees are more productive, discussions around psychological distress are still rare.
In France, nearly one in two employees reports psychological distress, and one in three hesitates to discuss these issues with loved ones. This reality underscores the urgency of taking concrete initiatives to improve dialogue around mental health at work. In 2025, mental health could become the Great National Cause in France, reflecting increased recognition of psychosocial risks and their impact. So, without further ado, your Swiss goodies agency My Gift has looked into the subject…
Mental Health in the Office: What Is It and Why Is It Important?
Mental health at work depends on many factors, some of which are beyond employees’ direct control. Good mental health means feeling supported, valued, and capable of meeting professional challenges in a healthy way. Conversely, psychosocial risks include elements such as underutilization of skills, excessive workload, unsuitable hours, or a lack of control over tasks.
Difficult working conditions, a corporate culture that tolerates negative behaviors, insufficient support from colleagues, or situations of violence and harassment are also significant sources of stress. Furthermore, vague role definitions, job insecurity, insufficient remuneration, and an imbalance between professional and personal life amplify these risks. It is therefore essential for companies to recognize these factors and manage them proactively to preserve the mental well-being of their employees.
Promoting mental health also helps combat stereotypes and unspoken issues. Many employees dare not discuss their difficulties for fear of stigmatization or loss of credibility.
Mental health at work is therefore everyone’s business: employers, managers, and employees must collaborate to create an environment conducive to everyone’s well-being. Globally, it is estimated that depression and anxiety lead to the loss of 12 billion working days each year, representing an estimated productivity loss of $1 trillion.
How to Identify Mental Health Disorders at Work?
The main mental health disorders at work include stress, burnout, depression, and chronic anxiety. These disorders can significantly affect an employee’s quality of life and performance. Learning to identify warning signs allows for action or seeking necessary help.
- Stress: A stressed employee may become irritable, experience difficulty sleeping, and suffer from headaches or muscle tension. This constant pressure leads to persistent fatigue, where each task seems increasingly overwhelming. However, it is important to note that not all levels of stress are harmful; a certain degree of stress can be a driver of performance.
- Burnout: Often resulting from prolonged occupational stress, burnout manifests as emotional exhaustion, loss of motivation, and a feeling of disconnection from work. Signs include extreme demotivation, intense fatigue, and increased cynicism. This disorder can also lead to physical problems, such as digestive issues.
- Depression: It is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest in daily tasks, and sleep disturbances. Unlike fatigue or stress, depression sets in long-term and continuously affects work performance.
- Anxiety: It is characterized by an excessive fear of deadlines or meetings. People suffering from chronic anxiety are constantly tense, with physical symptoms such as palpitations. At work, this can translate into difficulty making decisions and a constant fear of failure.
Common Warning Signs: changes in attitude (irritability, disengagement), frequent absences, decreased performance, and social isolation.
Mental Health on a Daily Basis: It’s a Work in Progress!
There are effective measures to prevent the risks of mental disorders, and to protect and promote mental health at work. Here are some avenues:
- Prevention and Awareness: Organizing workshops on stress management and burnout prevention helps shed light on these issues. Awareness reduces stereotypes and encourages employees to speak freely about their difficulties.
- Open Communication: Establishing a culture where communication is free and employees feel heard is essential to improving well-being. Trained managers can address signs of psychological distress and offer a supportive listening space.
- Work-Life Balance: Encouraging a healthy balance is paramount. This involves flexibility, digital disconnection periods, and appropriate leave, fostering a serene mind and better concentration.
- Psychological Support: Providing access to support services, such as psychologists or an anonymous helpline, allows employees to obtain professional help. In France, some corporate programs offer valuable assistance.
- Improve the Work Environment: A healthy and benevolent work environment is essential. A positive atmosphere, moments of relaxation, and valuing efforts play a key role in preventing mental health disorders.
In October, I Take Advantage of Events to Learn More
In France, I participate in the Mental Health Information Weeks (SISM), with many events available SISM. In Switzerland, in the canton of Vaud, initiatives are taking place from September 10 to October 10, 2024, with information stands, conferences, and workshops in shopping malls and various public places.
