We truly underestimate the power of work, duty and routine far too often. Psychologically speaking, having a fulfilling career brings about a sense of meaning in life because you are aware that your clients, patients or employers are relying on you.
Financial and job security can lower stress by a boat load and being productive in general or the feeling that you are making a positive contribution in your community enhances positive emotions. People not only benefit economically from their jobs; mental and physical health are meaningfully affected by the psychological agony of unemployment. Also the penalties of unemployment spread way past individuals, to their families, friends and communities. The detrimental factors of unemployment are visible in areas where poverty, alcohol and drug abuse and gender based violence are rife.
However, work-related stress and pressure has also been notorious for causing health, safety and personal problems which is why it is imperative to prioritize wellness within the workplace. Poor work place wellness and mental health can take a physical toll on the body whilst negatively impacting performance within the workplace as it gives rise to fatigue, irritability, lack of productivity, repeated absenteeism and job abandonment. Companies that have an effective wellness program are known to boast more productive employees, reduced anxiety, healthy blood pressure, greater job satisfaction, positive attitudes and behaviors with stronger interpersonal relationships within the workplace who are happier and healthier than employees that work in environments where they are either treated badly or not well taken care of. Wellness programs offer employees and employers with a multiplicity of supportive resources essential for cultivating the holistic health and lifestyle of the company as a whole.
Some wellness activities that can be implemented into the work place include:
- Team building activities
- Guided meditation classes
- Hiring an in-house psychologist or counselor
- Employee health screenings
- Corporate wellness educational displays
- Guided fitness activities
Because of the fact that employees are like assets to any organization it is only logical to prioritize their wellness, not only for the organization in and of itself, but also for the surrounding community at large. If health is wealth then continuous investments must be directed toward the sustenance of health and wellness within the workplace which will in turn increase wealth within the workplace to transform overworked, stressed out employees into well-looked-after, revitalized, positive and productive assets ready to help your organization grow and flourish.
Tweet @NamMentalHealth to pose questions or to learn a little more about Mental Health.
