Mental health is a serious issue in the workplace, especially when we consider that one in five workers suffers from depression, and one in three suffers from a bipolar disorder. It’s not only a personal issue, but it affects relationships with friends, family, and co-workers as well. With a growing number of behavioral health services available in the workplace, it’s important to know how to support psychological health and safety in the workplace.
Changes in behavior
Many companies are making a real effort to address changes in behavior and mental health in the workplace. More than half of employees have reported symptoms of a mental health condition in the past year, and more than a third have left their jobs because of a mental health problem.
Companies are investing in mental health programs and training to help employees recognize behavioral ailments. Several studies suggest that the rate of employees suffering from behavioral problems is on the rise. This increased demand for care is driving up costs, and putting a strain on employers.
Stress affects relationships with family, friends and co-workers
The effects of stress on relationships are many and varied. It’s normal to be stressed from time to time, but if you’re feeling overwhelmed, you may want to find a way to calm down.
One of the most important ways to deal with stress is by building a support network. You can use this to your advantage when you’re feeling overwhelmed by work or life. Whether you’re dealing with your spouse, friends, or co-workers, getting them involved can help you feel less alone.
Keeping a positive attitude is a must. A negative attitude can have a damaging effect on your job and your health.
Behavioral health services are becoming available at the workplace
Behavioral health services are increasingly becoming available at the workplace. This is due in part to the increasing prevalence of mental illnesses among workers and the need to address stigma. However, employers need to overcome barriers to bringing these services to the workforce.
While behavioral health issues affect employees in many ways, some are more disabling than others. The most serious of these disorders can interfere with a person’s ability to think or function. Fortunately, treatment can empower people to live better lives.
Many companies recognize the cost of not addressing these issues, but a majority of employers also feel ambivalent about their role in addressing them. In the latest survey, nearly 80 percent of respondents believe that their employers should care about their emotional well-being.
Cost of failing to support psychological well-being
If you are in the business of hiring and retaining employees, you may want to consider incorporating some of the best practices of the mental health movement into your workplace. Research reveals that companies that do so see lower turnover rates and higher profit margins. These practices include offering comprehensive mental health programs, providing employees with the tools to cope with stress, and designing work environments that encourage employee collaboration.
The cost of failing to support psychological well-being in the workplace is staggering. In fact, mental disorders have been reported to cost employers between PS33 billion and PS42 billion annually.
Depression is the most common health-related issue in the American workforce
Depression and other mental health disorders are prevalent across economic indicators. They have been linked to higher absenteeism, decreased productivity, reduced social interaction with co-workers, and lower educational performance. In addition, the financial cost of such conditions is significant.
Behavioral health problems also contribute to the cost of healthcare. According to the Health Care Cost Institute, the costs of treating behavioral health conditions have increased by 33 percent in the last three years. It is estimated that a total of $210 billion is spent on the treatment of major depressive disorder in the United States.
Bipolar disorder shifts moods from manic to depressive states
Bipolar disorder is a serious illness that affects people throughout their lives. It is characterized by episodes of mania and depression. These extreme mood changes can be difficult to live with and can disrupt your daily life.
If you are struggling with bipolar disorder, there are many ways to manage your symptoms. Your health care team can help you find the best treatment for you. However, there are some things you can do on your own to help keep your mood under control.
In addition to medications, you may benefit from behavioral therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps you recognize unhelpful patterns of thinking. This type of treatment can also help you develop coping strategies.