National Safety Month 2022: Mental Health, Stress, and Workplace Impairment

The State of Mental Health at Work

In this episode, we talked with Dr. Kimlinger about recent evolutions in how employers are treating mental health in the workplace, discussing a range of solutions that enterprises of all sizes are utilizing to help support their workers and foster healthy work environments. 

To understand how employers can effectively tackle mental health challenges in their workforces, it’s essential to recognize the full scope of the issue. Research published in Lancet Regional Health – Americas reported that before the pandemic, 8.5% of adults faced elevated depression symptoms. But in 2021, that number rose to 32.8%, more than tripling over the course of two years. That spike can be traced to the pandemic and other economic and personal factors, but its effects on the workplace are predictable: lower productivity, lower employee engagement, and greater risk of both fatigue and workplace injury. Another study published in BMC Public Health analyzed the connections between occupational stress and mental health issues among coal mine workers in China found that workers experiencing stress or negative mental health factors were more likely to sustain musculoskeletal injuries.  

How can employers support employee mental health?

The connections between mental health, stress and workplace safety have never been more evident, and employers are increasingly emphasizing mental health support in their safety and wellness plans. With turnover soaring across virtually all industries, workers are also beginning to prioritize mental well-being when it comes to selecting a job. For enterprises dedicated to retaining top talent, mental health support is critical. 

That’s why many employers are developing innovative, proactive plans using a “total worker wellness” approach based on the NIOSH Total Worker Health framework. These programs often include mental health supports such as:

• Accessible personal counseling, therapy, and medication management
• Personal coaching and professional development programming
• Mindfulness training through smartphone apps and other services
• Flexibility in scheduling where possible
• Available PTO supported by organizational culture

These are just a few of the many options available to employers hoping to improve their operations, retention, and bottom line. Want to learn more about mental health and the connections between wellness and ergonomic injuries in the workplace? Watch this webinar today.

By Kevin Lombardo

Courtesy of DORN