In automotive industry manufacturing, business and vehicle sales & servicing, high pressure can lead to mental health issues.
Now professionals in care have signposted what employers and colleagues can look out for which might suggest someone is suffering from issues affecting emotional, psychological and social wellbeing.
It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices.
Mental health, like physical health, can fluctuate from ‘good’ to ‘poor’.
Good mental health is important to a person’s overall wellbeing, so it’s important to spot the signs of mental health challenges in your employees so that you can help support them.
What’s mental ill health?
Mental ill health covers a number of different conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Mental health problems can affect anyone regardless of age, personality or background. They can appear as a result of experiences or challenges in our personal and working lives – or they can just happen.
Mental health and work
A total of 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem each year, according to Mind. Despite the fact that it’s very common, it’s not always easy to talk about. Nearly half of people who face mental health challenges feel uncomfortable talking to their employer about it.
Signs of mental health challenges in individuals are varied.
Changes in mood
Stress can cause normally mild-mannered individuals to begin snapping at their colleagues or an extrovert to suddenly retreat from social interaction. If someone seems more short-tempered, tearful or introverted than usual, keep an eye on their behaviour and read the section below.
Absenteeism and timekeeping
A noticeable increase in sick days may be a sign that your employee is struggling. You may also notice someone taking longer lunch breaks or arriving to work late.
Changes in productivity
When someone is stressed or distracted by health issues they may make uncharacteristic errors, miss deadlines and find it hard to concentrate.
Weight or appetite changes
Significant changes in someone’s weight (rapid weight gain or loss) or different eating habits (eating significantly less or more) can indicate a mental health issue.
Sleeplessness
If you notice your employees look tired, lethargic or worn out on a regular basis, it could be a sign that they aren’t sleeping well which could be down to stress and their mental health.