OCTOBER 10 - WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY

OCTOBER 10, 2024 – World Mental Health Day: A Focus on Mental Health at Work

World Mental Health Day, observed on the 10th of October, is a crucial moment dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and promoting well-being. This day not only encourages people to educate themselves about mental health issues but also highlights the importance of seeking help and support. For 2024, the World Federation for Mental Health has chosen the theme “Mental Health at Work”, a topic that deserves attention as many people spend a significant portion of their lives in work environments that impact their mental health.

Understanding Mental Health

Mental health affects every aspect of our lives, from personal relationships to professional performance. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 970 million people worldwide were affected by mental illness in 2019. Among the most common mental health disorders are anxiety-related conditions, affecting 301 million people that same year. Other prevalent conditions include depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as noted by Advanced Psychiatry Associates (2024).

The causes of these mental health conditions can be social, environmental, or biological, and with the 2024 theme focused on mental health in the workplace, the social factors are particularly relevant. The work environment has a significant influence on mental well-being, with WHO (2024) noting that 60% of the global population is employed, making workplace conditions critical in determining mental health. Factors such as harassment, anxiety, or discrimination in the workplace can increase the risk of mental health issues, leading to decreased productivity and emotional distress.

Warning Signs to Look Out For

Recognizing the warning signs of mental health struggles is essential for early intervention. If you or someone close to you is experiencing a challenging or toxic work environment, here are some red flags to keep in mind, as noted by the American Psychiatric Association (2018):

  • Changes in sleep or appetite: Disruptions in sleep patterns or eating habits can indicate mental distress.
  • Withdrawal: A person may begin to withdraw from social activities or lose interest in things they once enjoyed.
  • Apathy: A lack of motivation or interest in participating in daily activities can be a sign of mental health issues.
  • Nervousness: Uncharacteristic nervousness, irritability, or suspicion may also signal a problem.
  • Unusual behavior: Any behavior that seems out of the ordinary or inconsistent with someone’s typical character.
  • Increased sensitivity: Heightened sensitivity to sensory inputs such as light, sound, or smells.

If you observe these symptoms in yourself or others, it may be time to seek professional help.

The Importance of Psychological Intervention

Seeking expert intervention is a vital step in managing and treating mental health issues. The World Health Organization (2024) emphasized that workplace mental health interventions can help employees not only perform better at work but also thrive in their personal lives. Studies, like one conducted by Bortolotti et al. (2008), have shown that psychological interventions are particularly effective for depression and anxiety. In this study, psychological treatments were found to significantly reduce depressive symptoms compared to standard care provided by general practitioners.

What Are Psychological Interventions?

Psychological interventions refer to treatments and support provided by mental health professionals, either through trained specialists or supervised non-specialists. These interventions can take many forms, including individual counseling, group therapy, family therapy, or even online sessions. According to the WHO (2024), these methods are particularly effective in treating depression and anxiety, common issues faced by workers today.

Types of Psychological Interventions

There are various types of psychological interventions, each designed to address specific mental health needs. The NIHR (2024) lists some of the different forms:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapies (CBT):

  – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  – Behavioral therapies

  – Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)

Relationship-Based Interventions:

  – Attachment-oriented interventions

  – Parenting interventions

Systemic Interventions:

  – Systemic family therapy (FT)

  – Multigroup family therapy

  – Family-based programs

These interventions are delivered by trained psychologists and cater to various aspects of mental health, from individual concerns to family dynamics.

World Mental Health Day on October 10th serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health, especially in the workplace, where many people spend most of their time. This year’s theme, “Mental Health at Work”, encourages us to think about how workplace conditions impact our well-being and stresses the need for supportive environments where mental health is prioritized. If you’re struggling, know that help is available. By recognizing the warning signs, seeking professional intervention, and understanding the different types of mental health treatments, we can take significant steps toward improving mental health—both at work and in our personal lives.

Remember: You can always get help!

 

Dorotheos Charalambous, Psychologist

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