Mental Health, at Work; A Detailed Examination from the Perspective of Organizational Psychology (ψ)

Mental well-being is an aspect that not only affects personal satisfaction but also has a significant impact on the productivity and prosperity of every healthy organization. Within the workplace mental health plays a role in employee engagement, retention and the overall organizational success. The European Union (EU) recognizes the importance of health and has already taken steps to promote it among its member states. Let's see the EUs initiatives in addressing health concerns in workplaces drawing upon research and academic insights from the field of Organizational Psychology.

The EUs Comprehensive Approach to Promoting Mental Health

Acknowledging the burden of health issues on its citizens even before the COVID 19 pandemic hit with around 84 million individuals experiencing such conditions (OECD, 2022) was the first step. The following pandemic has further exacerbated mental health concerns, these concerns as revealed by a Eurobarometer survey indicated that, approximately half of EU working citizens alarmingly reported feeling depressed or anxious within the CoVid-19 outbreak year (so the: European Commission, 2023).

In response to these challenges the EU has implemented a strategy for promoting mental health and well-being, while recognizing its interconnectedness with employment. Findings on i) drug use disorders and mental health issues, ii) young people and their mental health, and iii) mental health resulting from job insecurity, have been released by the Council of the European Union. These findings resulted to the provision of a set of measures to tackle these areas of concern. Noteworthy in this regard is that, the BENELUX countries through their local Social Service departments are already in discussions on a pilot basis program with the in-country HR associations and unions, discussing the possibility imposing min-requirements (educationally) to mid- and high seniority HR related positions, which will equip them with the basic understanding of mental health and how to prevent its decay.

Mental Health and Precarious Work

Precarious work, which encompasses wages, uncertainty and insufficient protection for employees can have an impact on mental well being (so the EU Council, 2023). The Council highlights the prevalence of stress, depression and anxiety among individuals engaged in employment (rising to 27%, 2022). To address this matter effectively the Council suggests implementing the below (but not limited to) measures to combat employment practices.

• Combat precarious employment through policy initiatives that promote decent work conditions
• Strengthen public systems that protect mental health at work, including access to counseling and support services
• Support research on the impact of working conditions on mental health to inform evidence-based policymaking
• Ensure that workers receive mental health surveillance through regular assessments and interventions
• Support the recruitment or reintegration of workers with mental health issues through targeted programs and accommodations

Mental Health and Young People

The COVID 19 pandemic has had an impact on the well being of young people as well. Anxiety and depression rates have significantly increased among this demographic (OECD, 2022). Recognizing the significance of addressing these issues becomes more critical considering the number of unmet needs for mental healthcare, among young individuals (EU Council, 2023).

The Councils conclusions regarding the well being of people highlight the importance of taking action to improve their living and working conditions by ensuring easy access to mental health care promoting research on how mental health impacts young individuals and the corp. performance, and combating stigma by sharing successful strategies among EU countries whilst creating a safer and healthier online environment.

When individuals experience both health issues and/or drug use disorders simultaneously their risk of psychopathology, hospitalization, overdose, suicide and premature death increases dramatically (EMCDDA, 2023). The Council acknowledges the necessity for support for these individuals from the states and the organizations alike.

Urging measures to i) enhance access to integrated care, ii) strengthen social protection measures within the companies, iii) encourage early intervention and prevention practices and finally iv) reduce stigma are few of the necessary steps that HR departments and well-being managers have to embed into their operational scope.

In conclusion the EUs commitment to promoting well being in the workplace is a step towards fostering a healthier and more productive workforce. By addressing the needs of groups like workers in precarious employment situations and young people, the EU is taking a comprehensive approach to tackling challenges related to mental health. These efforts align with an increasing body of research from Organizational Psychology (which should be embodied in the HR departments), that emphasizes the significance of well being for achieving success in organizations, and enhancing societal welfare. Another step towards solution is that companies (should) turn more and more towards qualified HR personnel, understanding the value that they bring to the table.

The EUs ongoing focus, on health serves as a role model for countries encouraging the creation of inclusive and supportive work environments, for everyone.

Thank you

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Sources:

Council of the European Union (2023a). Conclusions on mental health and precarious work. 9 October 2023.

Council of the European Union (2023b). Conclusions on young people and mental health. 23 November 2023.

Council of the European Union (2023c). Conclusions on drug use disorders and mental health problems. 14 December 2023.

European Commission (2023). Flash Eurobarometer on mental health, June 2023.

Kidd, P. (2020). The mental health implications of precarious work for employees: A scoping review. Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology, 83(4), 729-752.**

OECD (2018). Health at a glance: Europe 2018. OECD Publishing.

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