Building a healthy workplace

Definitions Work : application of physical and mental knowledge & skills; commitment over time; effort, labour & exertion Employment : contract of employment for pay; set of specific tasks, located in specific physical/social context

Definitions Health : usually operationalized in terms of absence of physical and mental symptoms, illness and morbidity Well-being : the subjective state of being healthy, happy, contented, comfortable and satisfied with one’s quality of life

Work and health Possible causal pathways between health, work and well-being

Work Work provides income: material well-being and participation in today’s society Work meets important psychosocial needs in societies where employment is the norm Work is central to individual identity, social roles and social status Employment and socio-economic status are the main drivers of social gradients in health

Mental illness affects people of all ages, educational and income levels, and cultures Some groups more likely to report mental health issues: Women Non-managers Not-for-profit sector Unionized employees

A healthy working life is: ‘one that continuously provides working-age people with the opportunity, ability, support and encouragement to work in ways and in an environment which allows them to sustain and improve their health and well-being’ (Scottish Executive 2004) ‘Work should be comfortable when we are well and accommodating when we are ill’ (Hadler 1997)

What is a Mentally Healthy Workplace? Workloads are monitored Overtime is compensated Workload Flexible work arrangements exist Work Scheduling Work-life balance is promoted Employees encouraged to take vacation Employees not expected to respond to e-mail 24/7 Work-Life Balance

What is a Mentally Healthy Workplace? People are friendly, empathetic, understanding, and supportive Bullying, harassment, and discrimination are not tolerated Not a high-stress environment; no hostility or conflict Work Environment Managers are well trained and good people managers Managers are not autocratic, authoritarian, controlling, and aggressive Employees are not blamed or punished for mistakes Management Style Open communication between management and employees Human resource professionals and managers are approachable Discussions are kept confidential Communication

Additional Training For Front-Line Managers Recognizing signs and symptoms Community supports available Medical factors influencing mental health issues Strategies for keeping employees functional and successful in the workplace Responses to negative reactions Insight into legal requirements Handling difficult conversations Softer skills Creating an inclusive work environment

Creating Positive Change in Organizations Focus on education and communication to reduce fear, stigma and discrimination Create a culture conducive to good mental health Demonstrate leadership at the top Provide the tools and training to support managers in their role

Building a Healthy Workplace – Leadership Development Building trust Ensuring each employee understands their purpose Setting clear expectations Focusing on the most important priorities Creating a circle of accountability Growing and developing their employees Developing Emotional Intelligence Understanding mental health aspects in the workplace Literature, courses etc… GM@W GWL Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace

Changing the culture of work & health Culture: The collective attitudes, beliefs and behaviours that characterise a particular social group over time Benefits culture – e.g. South Wales valleys where 2 and even 3 generations of family not worked

Shifting attitudes to work & health Current: Shift to: Work is a ‘risk’ and (potentially) harmful to physical and mental health. Work is healthy, therapeutic & the best form of rehab. vs. Risks of long-term sickness absence therefore Advice to stay off / sickness absence / sick certification ‘protects’ from work Advice and support to remain in or (early) return to work The key idea is that work is therapeutic and the best form of rehabilitation