Mental Health Awareness Month
Employee Assistance Programme — Supporting Your Wellbeing
Living during and after the Covid era has raised more awareness on mental illness and mental health issues due to employees experiencing mental health challenges.
Mental Illness
Refers to a collection of diagnosable mental disorders as stipulated in the DSM-V (APA, 2018).
Mental Health
Refers to a state of well-being in which every individual realizes their own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to contribute to their community.
Important Note: In our workplaces and in our homes, experiencing mental health issues may not necessarily mean you have a mental illness. Many individuals with poor mental health may have not been formally diagnosed with a mental illness. At the same token, many people who do have a diagnosed mental illness "can experience periods of physical, mental, and social well-being" (CDC, 2021).
Determinants of Mental Health
Optimal or sub-optimal mental health include (Chan C, & Hazan, H.; 2022):
- Multiple social factors
- Psychological factors
- Biological factors
- Rapid social change
- Stressful work conditions
- Gender discrimination
- Social exclusion
- Unhealthy lifestyle
- Physical ill-health
- Human rights violations
Need Support?
If you require further support regarding mental health challenges and strategies to improve your mental health, you may contact your Employee Health and Wellness service provider.
Proactive Health Solutions
Any habit can be changed if you are motivated and supported to do so.