Stress can be experienced as a result of excessive workload, lack of autonomy, office politics, bullying and poor relationships with colleagues and managers. The Australian Psychological Society "Stress and Wellbeing in Australia Survey 2013" revealed that almost half of the respondents reported workplace issues as a source of stress.
The World Health Organisation defines a healthy work environment as “one in which there is not only an absence of harmful conditions but an abundance of health-promoting ones”. Therefore, it is not only the absence of stressors which is important for a psychologically healthy workplace but the existence of a positive work environment. The dual focus recognises the contribution of improvements to the organisational environment. Through building supportive leadership capability and fostering engaging and positive work team processes, organisations can improve morale and reduce stress, both of which have been identified as key contributors to employee wellbeing.
The success of maintaining a psychologically healthy workplace relies on a systemic approach to leadership and managerial practices. Additionally, the realisation of a psychologically healthy workplace is dependent on senior level backing to both enable and support a well-functioning work environment.
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Category(s):Workplace Issues
Source material from Sydney Morning Herald
