Mental health is a continuum. It is a spectrum, with both ends bringing us extremely positive or negative feelings and thoughts.
It is important to highlight that mental health is not a fixed state of mind. As individuals, our environment and experiences are constantly changing, challenging our ability to cope. Similar to our physical health, there are times where it is at optimal conditions and, other times where we get sick, injured, weaker and need to modify certain aspects of our lives to improve our physical health.
It is important to highlight that mental health is not a fixed state of mind.
When we experience mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and others – it may impact our ability to function and be productive in the workplace. It can be very challenging to stay at work or return to work after a break period.
Challenges people with mental health conditions may face in their workplace:
- Reduced self-confidence
- Secrecy due to the stigma associated with mental health conditions and fear of discrimination
- Difficulty to cope with work environment stressors
- Difficulty to perform on the same conditions as others (strict working hours, noisy offices, workload, etc)
Benefits of work for our mental health
On the other side, the ability to work and be able to earn an income is very important for the well-being of any individual.
Work provides us with many mental health benefits such as:
- Gives us a sense of purpose and meaning
- Promotes social bonds and makes us feel we are part of a group
- Structures our day-to-day life
- Provides financial security
At Castle, we want you to support you in finding, staying or returning to work.
Castle works closely with specialist referral partners and health professionals that can provide expert mental health care and support services.
If needed, Castle can assist you at every step, to connect with specialist mental health services, put in place any recommended supports within your workplace, and ensure that you are equipped for work in the best way that sets you up for success.