Human Rights Programme
Mental Health affects us all: International Day for Persons with Disabilities: December 3rd
It is only recently that mental health issues, in our communities and our workplaces are being closely examined. One in five Canadians will experience a serious mental health problem during their lifetime. This affects people of all ages, income and education levels, cultures, religions, and types of jobs.
Workers who experience mental health disabilities are often isolated and stigmatized. They may not want to come forward and speak to co-workers or managers for fear of being labeled, further isolated, or harassed. They often suffer in silence. When their health deteriorates, long term absence can be the result. But this does not have to happen: workers with mental health disabilities can be productive, engaged workers when they have the right supports in place.
Workers have a right to a healthy workplace
What does a healthy workplace look like?
- Good leadership: workplace leaders that inspire and engage workers, and that are open, consultative and keep workers informed of important workplace matters and changes
- Workload & work pace: a workload that is manageable at a reasonable pace; not having impossible expectations of workers
- Work schedule (work-life balance): schedules that are predictable, and that can be flexible where needed
- Role clarity: providing workers with detailed information about what is expected of them, and what their role is in the organization
- Job security: stable employment and career opportunities and alternatives during restructuring
- Autonomy (independence): Independence to be able to make decisions and the support to do so. Employees must be properly trained and provided with the tools to make effective decisions in their work.
- Involvement & Influence: Some measure of involvement and influence over the decisions regarding work, tasks, and organizational goals.
- Development & recognition: Career development opportunities, training and skill development, and recognition of accomplishments.
- Workplace justice (fairness) and organizational culture: a workplace culture of fairness, accountability, and a workplace free from arbitrary, unfair, or discriminatory treatment.
- Physical environment: the physical environment at work can also affect one’s mental health. For example, safety, noise levels, allergens, ergonomics, and having the tools to be able to do one’s job.
- Psychological support & protection: A work environment where employees’ psychological safety is ensured, i.e. protection from harassment, bullying, and other forms of psychological violence.
Date Modified : 2010/12/02
