Usually, when you consider work-related health issues, you think of physical injuries. Meanwhile, mental health conditions usually don’t spring to mind; however, it’s been found that there is a direct link between the workplace and Minnesota employees’ mental health.
Understanding the link between work and mental health
In some cases, a worker may already have a mental health condition; if the workplace environment is negative, it could adversely affect them. For example, an employee struggling with depression may find their symptoms exacerbated if they are exposed to discrimination or harassment at work.
Other employees can develop a mental health condition based on the situation in their workplace. If they face a hostile work environment due to harassment or discrimination, it could cause a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder. However, any kind of negativity at work can take its toll on a worker’s emotional and mental health; long hours, understaffing, lack of support and other aspects can have an impact. If things are bad enough, those who are affected may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
Symptoms of workplace mental health issues
There’s a difference between having a bad day at work and suffering a work-related mental health issue. You may have a mental health problem related to the workplace based on your symptoms. A noticeable decline in your work performance, difficulty concentrating, drastic mood changes, fear and lack of interest in activities you normally enjoy are a few examples.
You may also have significant changes in your sleep such as insomnia or sleeping too much; your eating may also suffer as you can overeat or not eat enough. These symptoms indicate that work-related depression might be the problem.
In the worst-case scenario, mental health issues stemming from your working environment can lead to destructive habits; if you turn to alcohol or drugs to cope, it could lead to even worse problems.
