You and your job

Where we are on the mental health continuum on any given day can impact our ability to perform our job duties.

The Canadian Mental Health Association estimates that every week, 500,000 employees are off work because of mental health issues. According to the Conference Board of Canada, 44% of employees have had a mental health issue in their workplace.

 

Your job and You

At the same time, our job can play a key role in where we find ourselves on the mental health continuum. After all, the average Canadian spends about sixty percent of their waking hours at work!

And just like with our physical safety, it’s our employer’s responsibility to address risks of mental injury and promote a mentally healthy work environment.

Negative impacts

Mental illnesses account for about a third of all workplace disability claims (Benefits Canada). Common causes include exposure to workplace or occupational trauma, work-related harassment or bullying, and excess work pressure.

Those whose job involves front-line support in dangerous or emergency situations are often at increased risk of work-related mental illness such as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Positive impacts

Our workplace can also positively impact our mental health, helping us to maintain resilience and balance.

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety has identified six key factors that allow you to maintain positive mental health through your work.

  1. You feel valued and respected.
  2. Your job demands are reasonable.
  3. You are safe at work.
  4. Your work is challenging.
  5. You have a healthy work-life balance.
  6. Your employer supports growth and development.