Good work is important for mental well-being
Work has an important role in promoting mental well-being. It is an important determinant of self-esteem and identity. It can provide a sense of fulfillment and opportunities for social interaction. For most people, work provides their main source of income.
Work can have negative effects on mental health, particularly in the form of stress. Work-related stress is defined as ‘the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressure or other types of demand placed upon them’. Stress is the biggest hindrance to productivity, efficiency and even profitability. It can lead to absenteeism, low morale and increase in staff turnover.
Workplace well-being is one of the few areas that you can invest in your organisation to yield a massive return. According to Dame Carol Black, every £1 spent on workplace well-being can yield between £3 and £6 in gained productivity and efficiency. There are limited options that will give you that kind of return on investment.
About work-related stress
Find out more about:
- what work-related stress is
- why you should manage it in your organisation
- who has roles and responsibilities in doing that
- spotting signs and symptoms
HSE Management Standards
Find out more about:
- what the HSE Management Standards are
- how to effectively risk assess using them
- how to develop a culture of continuous improvement
HSENI and work-related stress
Find out more about:
- HSENI’s Mental Well-being at Work Advisory Service
- free resources for employers, line managers and employees
- frequently asked questions
Good Practice
Good practice guidance on:
- returning to work after sickness absence
- stress and mental health at work and home
- the Condition Management Programme (CMP)
- work-life balance
- workplace bullying and harassment
Events
HSENI run a number of different webinars on work-related stress. Details of these including dates and registration can be found on the events page:
Small businesses
The HSENI risk assessment tool, is designed for organisations with fifty or more staff. HSENI has provided additional advice for small businesses.
Articles
Related to Mental well-being at work
Most recent publications
Most recent news items
Access to information
How to request information from the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland including Freedom of Information (FOI) and the use of our Publication Scheme.