TODAY marks World Mental Health Day and this year’s theme is mental health in the workplace.
A large proportion of an adult’s life is spent at work and it is the experiences a person has in the workplace that is one of the factors determining their overall well-being.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression and anxiety disorders are common mental disorders that have an impact on a person’s ability to work productively. More than 300 million people suffer from depression, the leading cause of disability. More than 260 million are living with anxiety disorders.
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Warning signs to watch for:
• Decreased or increased appetite
• Insomnia
• Lack of energy and motivation
• Loss of libido
• Avoiding social situations
• Not wanting to do things you previously enjoyed
• Amenorrhoea (skipped or ceased periods in women and young girls not on contraceptive medication)
Symptoms to look for in others:
• Changes in behaviour
• Helplessness and hopelessness
• Emotional withdrawal
• Changes in eating patterns
• Changes in sleeping patterns
• A preoccupation with death or dying
• Moodiness, irritability or sadness
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is a great resource for guidance and support. Visit the website at www.sadag.org.
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Lifestyle management tips to reduce the effects of mental health disorders:
1. Create structure
Keep to regular appointments, engagements and routines.
2. Limit stressors
Take time off work or restructure your work schedule into tasks that are easily completed, require less concentration and can be accomplished in shorter periods of time.
3. Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness is a focus on living in the present. It is calmly accepting your feelings, thoughts and bodily sensations. Meditation can help you to be more mindful.
4. Exercise
This is as essential for mental health as it is for physical health.
5. Eat right and avoid substance abuse
Eat a balanced diet and avoid drinking alcohol or taking drugs.
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