Mental well-being at work

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:

HSE Management Standards

Find out more about:

HSENI and work-related stress

Find out more about:

Good Practice

Good practice guidance on:

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

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.