How Much is Understood the Importance of Mental Health at Work?

Abstract

Mental health is considered a priority today all over the world; in terms of treatment and especially prevention. Studies also show that, year after year, mental health problems are becoming the cause of problems at work, absenteeism, disability, which, in addition to mental health, also affect productivity at work. For the realization of this study, a qualitative approach has been considered, in order to better understand such a problem, which has not been addressed often in our country. 6 focus groups were conducted: three in the private sector and three in the public sector. Each of them had 8-11 participants. The composition, in terms of sociodemographic variables, was diverse. The study showed that, in institutions, leaders and managers do not yet have the proper awareness to take care of the mental health of employees. Employees state that they cannot complain if they have such problems, that they cannot be absent from work for this reason and that, in general, elements such as relations between employees, etc., are not taken into consideration. No significant difference was observed in the comparison between the private and public sectors. This study brings attention to the need to focus on mental health at work, so that policy makers, managers and employees themselves appreciate its importance. A number of aspects are recommended to be taken into consideration, including division of labor based on skills and opportunities, fostering effective cooperation between employees, working conditions, etc.

Received: 05 May 2022 / Accepted: 17 May 2023 / Published: 20 May 2023