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Strike a balance at home and work for better mental health

There could be a number of factors that trigger mental health issues and affect well-being today (Five ways to prevent a career burnout; KT, Aug 9). Workplace stress is among the most common factors to adversely affect not just the mental, but also the physical health of an employee. Stress and fatigue occur when extra demands and pressures are imposed, and it does not match the employee's resources or ability to cope or adjust. In addition, tight deadlines, tough clients, multiple review cycles of deliverable and the inability to adjust with peers and supervisors also top the list of causes. Lack of work-life balance in this highly demanding industry also contributes significantly towards maintaining the mental health of the employees.
Work is a significant and meaningful feature in life. We often say 'work is worship'. Most of us spend on an average more than 10 hours at the workplace. While work can provide us with structure, purpose, satisfaction, self-esteem, and spending power, the workplace can also be a setting of stress and worry. But it all depends on how you carry yourself. In every company, the employees matter the most. Hence, they have the right to enjoy what they do and the company should look forward to ensure that every employee is protected.
There is a thin line between being passionate about one's work and getting completely consumed by it. Working compulsively and work obsession can also be a manifestation of emotional issues plaguing a person which can escalate to workaholics.
Organisations should have right expectations from their employees as too high demands will lead to stress and in turn harm their mental health. They can achieve this by streamlining the operational processes and striking a balance between an individual's aspirations and the company's goals, and thus foster a sense of belonging.
- Mathew Litty, Dubai