Emotional Health in the Workplace

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Embarrassed.  Afraid. Don’t know where to find help.  These are sometimes the feelings that stop people from seeking help for emotional concerns. Fortunately, many companies now recognise that emotional health is integral to the physical health of staff, and these companies are actively adopting whole-body wellness programmes.

According to Dr Cindy Chan, a registered clinical psychologist, work, family problems, health issues, relationship, financial burden and a Type A personality are common factors contributing to stress responses, which may in turn result in different types of emotional disturbances, such as anxiety disorder and depression.

The symptoms of anxiety disorder include panic attacks and sleeplessness, while people suffering from depression are sometimes negative and self-critical, accompanied by sleeplessness, as well as loss of concentration and appetite. Physical and mental symptoms may also develop.

“Self awareness is very important in early detection of emotional disorders. Be sensitive to any emotional, cognitive and behavioural warning signs and equip yourself with some coping strategies. If the signs persist for two weeks, it is a warning signal.  Seek professional help if you experience the symptoms described above for over four weeks,” said Dr Chan.

Dr Chan cited the example of a patient who was overwhelmed by work stress. “She was a good performer but did not know how to say no to any job including those that were not within her duties.  After a few years, her workload became too much and she started having panic attacks.  Even after treatment the symptoms came back and she started developing stomach problems. Sadly because of delayed treatment, she can no longer work.”