When thinking about staying healthy, we typically think of physical health but mental health is equally as important. OSHA recently launched a new webpage that is intended to help employers and workers manage workplace stress, while maintaining mental health amid a shifting work climate.

According to the National Institute for Occupational Health & Safety (NIOSH), nearly one out of five U.S. adults live with a mental illness. World Health Organization data shows that 83% of U.S. workers experience work-related stress, while 54% find that work stress affects their home life.

OSHA’s new webpage offers guidance and tips for employers, including training resources, outreach materials, and analyses of real-world solutions, as well as insight on workplace stress, mental health, and substance use. Below are some key items that employers can do to help their staff to manage stress:

• Be mindful of the unique stressors affecting each employee
• Identify factors that may make it harder for workers to get their jobs done — and make adjustments, if possible
• Create a safe and trustworthy work culture by making sure that workers know they aren’t alone, and their employer understands the stress they’re under. Emphasize that there’s no shame in feeling anxious and that asking for help is important
• Provide access to supportive services without penalty, such as coping and resiliency resources, and workplace and leave flexibilities

You can visit OSHA’s new webpage at https://www.osha.gov/workplace-stress/employer-guidance

Credit: Safety+Health Magazine and OSHA

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