The relationship between your mental health and your chosen job might not be on your radar when you’re young and don’t have any obligations. However, as you age, that changes and where you decide to work can greatly impact your well-being. The following is a list of five reasons mental health should always be considered when choosing a career:
Workplace Stress Can Cause Depression
Workplace stress and mental health are interlinked. If you’re experiencing high-stress levels at work, you’ll likely be more susceptible to depression. Mental health affects the whole person. You should consider whether your work situation will contribute to your overall health or if it is going to continually wear on your body. Although spurts of work stress can be overcome, take note if this is an on-going issue.
Workplace Stress Can Lead to Lower Productivity
Workplace stress can lead to lower productivity and absenteeism. This is the main cause of higher turnover, low morale, and employee engagement especially in occupations that are demanding. If you have seen a trend of decreased productivity, consider searching for another field of work. Sometimes, it’s those big career shifts that are exactly what you need.
If you work in an office, maybe consider construction jobs. There are many fields that will train you with little experience and can offer a breath of fresh air (sometimes literally!). If you feel unsatisfied and unfilled working, look into taking this leap. If anything, it can give you new perspective and added skills.
Workplace Stress Can Physically Harm You
A stressful workplace can lead to serious health problems. Stress is sometimes a major factor in heart disease, cancer, headaches, insomnia or fatigue, loss of appetite, and smoking or drinking too much alcohol. As an employee you should not be expected to take on so much stress that it affects you physically. Don’t make the mistake of thinking every workplace will require the same emotional toll. There are many companies who put safeguards in place to care for the mental health of their employees. Contact your HR department to see if they have any recommendations to combat workplace stress.
Workplace Stress Reduces The Quality of Your Life
You spend a good chunk of your life at work, so it’s important to find a place where you can thrive. Working in an unhappy environment is difficult for anyone. Still, for those with mental health issues, that unhappiness can significantly affect their well-being and their ability to enjoy other aspects of their lives outside of work. It may even mean they have to leave their current job altogether if they want to be happy again!
Do you feel like your job is making you unhappy? Do you dread going to work in the morning and have difficulty simply getting out of bed? If so, this may be because workplace stress affects your life outside of work.
Workplace stress can lead to depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and family troubles. It can also cause financial difficulties through missed mortgage payments or unpaid credit card bills. Over time, these issues could lead to health problems such as heart disease or other chronic illnesses. Do not let your work environment ruin the other aspects of your life!
When you’re thinking about your next career move, make sure to consider the effect on your happiness and mental health. Work is a big part of your life. As we said before, a job where you are consistently stressed will negatively affect your career and overall well-being. If you are considering a new career or looking for ways to improve your current job situation, make sure that the work environment is somewhere you feel comfortable and satisfied.
