The Impact of Mental Health Problems in the Workforce
The article discusses the various mental health problems that take place in the workforce. It explains the different types of mental health problems affecting employees and how it affects their work performance. It is revealed that a large number of employees are affected by mental health problems. However, because of stigma and discrimination, most of them do not open up either to their bosses or other employees. In case the employer or managers notice the problem, they are also challenged on how they can deal with such issues. The article points out some symptoms of the common problems which include: depression attention deficit disorder, anxiety, and bipolar disorder (Harvard Medical School 1). However, it is provided that such symptoms manifest differently when the individual is at work as compared to when he is in other places.
The Most Common Mental Health Problems in the Workforce
Out of the mentioned mental health symptoms, it is found that depression, anxiety, obesity, neck and back pain, and arthritis are the most common problems affecting employees. Loss of productivity is the leading cost of the mental health disorders in the workforce. Many employees lose confidence, face stigma, discrimination among other issues which eventually affect them in undertaking their assigned tasks. Further, the article highlights that managers and company owners can minimize the associated cost with mental health disorders if only the employees in need of treatment can receive it (Harvard Medical School 3). Both employees and employers are advised to take mental health treatment with seriousness given that it affects them all. For instance, the employee’s careers are affected while the employer incurs a cost of low worker productivity.
The Importance of Investing in Mental Health Treatment
The author concludes by insisting on the need for companies to invest in mental health treatment. It is explained that the long-term costs of mental health problems may require an investment that will affect not only the employee but also the employer (Harvard Medical School 4).
Work Cited
Harvard Medical School. "Mental Health Problems in the Workplace." Havard mental health
Letter (2010): 1-4. Print.
