MENTAL HEALTH AT WORK: A SILENT CRISIS
In today's fast-paced world, the workplace has become a significant source of stress for many individuals. While employers often focus on productivity and meeting targets, the mental well-being of both them and their employees is frequently overlooked. This oversight can have serious consequences, not only for the workers but also for the overall success of the company, impacting the overall economy negatively.
THE TRANSPORTERS' DILEMMA
Bus and Train drivers face a unique set of challenges. These individuals are entrusted with the safety of countless passengers, yet their own mental health is rarely considered. Usually, employers just hand them the keys and send them off to convey travellers to their destinations without inquiring about their mental state. This neglect can have dangerous consequences, especially when drivers are dealing with personal issues, family problems, or financial stress. Overworked and under-appreciated, these transporters are expected to meet strict schedules, sometimes with little to no rest between shifts. The pressure to perform flawlessly, even when battling their own mental health struggles, is immense. When mistakes happen, instead of receiving support, they are often met with harsh criticism or financial penalties. This toxic cycle not only endangers the drivers but also the lives of those they transport.
THE PLIGHT OF BANKERS
Banking is a high-stress job and high levels of the stress hormone Cortisol released in the brain especially for prolonged periods can have damaging effects on our organs and health. Bankers, particularly those in customer-facing roles, are at risk. Working long hours, sometimes from Monday to Sunday, they have little time for rest, relaxation, or social activities. The constant pressure to meet targets, combined with complaints, disrespect, insults and little to no appreciation from the customers they serve and the institutions they work for can take a toll on their mental health.
Field workers, who are expected to generate business, are particularly vulnerable. They are often pushed to achieve results ‘anyhow’ without receiving much encouragement from their employers. The lack of mental health support in such high-stress environments can lead to burnout, negative stress, anxiety, and depression, making it difficult for these workers to perform at their best.
THE MENTAL STRAIN ON MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS
Medical practitioners, especially surgeons, face tremendous pressure on a daily basis. Surgeons can perform multiple surgeries in a single day. Sometimes, despite the psychological weight of a failed surgery, self-doubt, guilt, or even the blame from the affected patients' families they are still expected to remain strong and immediately return to the operating theatre to perform another procedure. This intense mental burden, combined with the physical exhaustion of working long hours, leaves many medical professionals vulnerable to burnout, anxiety, and depression. Yet, in most cases, no one pauses to consider their mental state. They are expected to separate their feelings and continue to provide lifesaving care, often at the expense of their own well-being.
THE OVERBURDENED OFFICE WORKERS
Office workers are not immune to the mental health challenges of the workplace. Many are tasked with multiple responsibilities, some of which fall outside their job description. Sometimes, new tasks are added, coupled with the pressure to perform them flawlessly. Add their own personal and family issues. This can be overwhelming for many staff. A piling workload, unhealthy criticism and competition, can create a hostile working environment that fosters stress and anxiety. This relentless pressure can lead to mental health breakdowns, leaving workers feeling trapped and unsupported.
THE STRUGGLE OF LAW ENFORCEMENT & MILITARY PERSONNEL
The mental health of Military personnel and Law enforcement officers, especially in Nigeria, are often overlooked. These individuals, entrusted with protecting the lives and property of citizens/protecting the country’s territorial integrity, often endure extreme conditions rain or shine, standing for hours on end, often for little pay and even less appreciation. Their superiors, more focused on results, rarely inquire about their mental state. This negligence is dangerous. Imagine a police officer, given a rifle to handle volatile situations, without anyone assessing his emotional or mental stability. The officer, burdened by stress, frustration, or fear of demotion, may lash out at civilians or engage in unlawful arrests, aiming to extort money as a way to cope with the pressure. At checkpoints, officers are often expected to collect money, with the unspoken threat of transfers hanging over their heads if they fail to do so. This toxic cycle can push officers toward mental breakdowns, impacting their decision-making and ultimately endangering the very lives they are sworn to protect.
EMPLOYERS' MENTAL HEALTH
Employers are not exempt from the pressures of the workplace. The responsibility of meeting targets, managing teams, and ensuring the success of the company can lead to significant stress. Especially in a highly competitive sector. Overworking themselves and their employees is counterproductive, as it can result in burnout, poor decision-making, and a toxic work environment. Employers need to take care of their mental health to lead effectively. By prioritising their well-being, they can create a more comfortable and productive environment for everyone, ultimately benefiting the entire organisation.
THE IMPACT OF A TOXIC WORK ENVIRONMENT
A toxic working environment can have a profound impact on mental health. Whether it's due to poor management, lack of support, or an excessively high-pressure atmosphere, a toxic workplace can lead to a range of mental health issues, including stress, anxiety, and depression. Employees who feel unsupported or undervalued are more likely to experience burnout, leading to higher turnover rates and reduced productivity. Colleagues can also contribute to a difficult work environment through envy, creating tension and hostility that make it hard for others to perform their duties effectively.
Frequent sanctions, shouting at workers or using intimidation tactics can ignite fear, which is detrimental to a healthy work environment. Fearful employees may hesitate to speak up, even when they have vital information that could help the company grow. This withholding of information due to fear of how the boss might react can stifle innovation, create communication barriers, and prevent the organisation from reaching its full potential.
CREATING A BALANCED MENTAL HEALTH ENVIRONMENT IN THE WORKPLACE
In the hustle and bustle of today's work environment, maintaining a balance between productivity and mental well-being is crucial. Employers and employees both play pivotal roles in fostering a healthy workplace where everyone can thrive. By working together, they can create an atmosphere that supports mental health, leading to a more positive, productive, and harmonious workplace.
WAYS EMPLOYERS CAN HELP:
1. Openly and visibly reward and encourage hard working staff and don’t delay promotions.
2. Provide Mental Health assessment, training & counselling opportunities for staff
3. Have a Games / Recreation day for staff weekly and insist on breaks / annual leaves as merited
4. Have annual, bi-annual, quarterly camps/retreats for staff
5. Set Realistic Expectations and offer flexible work options
6. Be a good listener and show compassion
7. Delegate tasks suited to areas of expertise without overloading them
8. Encourage open communication to kill gossip
9. Encourage respect, self-improvement and growth in the workplace
10. Address issues Promptly without showing partiality
WAYS EMPLOYEES CAN HELP:
1. Prioritise Self-Care
2. Set healthy boundaries
3. Communicate Openly
4. Support Your Colleagues
5. Engage in Stress-Relief Activities
6. Seek Professional Help When Needed
7. Stay Organised
8. Participate in Workplace Wellness Programs
9. Maintain a Positive Attitude
10. Be Respectful and Collaborative
CONCLUSION
A mentally healthy workplace is built through the combined efforts of both employers and employees. When each plays their part - employers by fostering a supportive environment, and employees by prioritising their well-being - everyone benefits. Together, they can create a balanced, productive, and harmonious workplace where mental health is valued and nurtured.
#treasureyourmentalhealth
If things are getting out of hand, please contact your healthcare provider or your mental health professional for proper support. Call us on +234 814 831 8965 or send us an Email at: info@copeandlive.foundation