Jump to Share article Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to LinkedIn Email Share link via email Jump to heading 5 to 12 October is WA Mental Health Week 2024! This year, the theme is empowering communities, thriving workforces: a journey towards investing in our mental health. Employment is a big part of our lives. Most of us rely on our work to earn an income and ultimately live a meaningful, functional life. Research shows that employment can give people a sense of empowerment, which is linked to the fact that our jobs help us: earn an income; gain skills and expertise; increase our social connections; and develop a sense of belonging in the workplace and the community. A double-edged sword: what happens if you experience issues at work? Due to the impact that our jobs have on our sense of empowerment and wellbeing, this means that conversely, experiencing workplace issues can also negatively impact our mental health and have a flow-on impact on not just our work lives, but our personal lives too. For example, being targeted by conduct such as workplace bullying, discrimination or harassment can have serious impacts on a person’s sense of empowerment, as well as their health and wellbeing. Being targeted by workplace bullying, discrimination or sexual harassment has been linked to: stress, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder; being less satisfied in a job or disrupting a worker’s career path; financial loss and debt; and feelings of isolation, loss of confidence and withdrawal from friends and family. The importance of self-care If you have experienced negative treatment at work, it is crucial to recognise that your well-being is a priority: you deserve care, kindness, and attention. Engaging in self-care activities might give you a sense of control over your wellbeing, and address the feeling of powerlessness that often comes with being targeted by things like workplace bullying, discrimination and sexual harassment. Self-care practices help develop healthy coping mechanisms which are important to build resilience from challenges and uncertainties and to promote recovery. Practicing self-care will look different for everyone, but may include things like: moving your body connecting with nature engaging in hobbies journalling meditation and mindfulness spending time with family and friends Check out our information resources on self-care and support. The ability to make informed decisions is crucial to feel empowered If you feel that you have been targeted by workplace bullying, discrimination or sexual harassment, knowing your rights and understanding your options is important. Remember, what you decide to do next is up to you. But sometimes seeking legal advice or information about your rights and options might empower you to make informed decisions about what, if anything, you do next. If you have a workplace issue and need legal advice, you can click here to request free legal assistance. You can also have a look at our workplace information resources here. You are not alone! Finally, remember that you don’t have to face this alone. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness. See below for a list of free, confidential services available if you need to talk to someone about your experiences or if you are experiencing a mental health crisis: Lifeline WA Beyond Blue Headspace 1800RESPECT (sexual violence and Family Domestic Violence counselling only) Full Stop Australia (sexual violence and Family Domestic Violence counselling only)
