Mental health is a growing problem in workplaces across Australia and talking about it can be difficult.
Under the Work Health and Safety Act, your employer has a duty to provide you with a healthy and safe work environment – both physically and psychologically.
As long as you are able to do the inherent requirements of your job, your employer cannot discriminate against you if you’re experiencing a mental health condition including anxiety or depression.
If your mental health condition is impacting your ability to do your work, your employer should make reasonable adjustments to ensure you can continue to do your job.
Talking to your employer about your mental health can be an uncomfortable and potentially tricky conversation but it can help your employer and your coworkers better support you and make changes to your workload to ensure you can be happy and productive at work.
Workplace health hazards such as poor working conditions, unreasonable expectations and lack of recognition can have a huge impact on mental health. Just like any other hazard, you should raise them with your Health & Safety Rep or SDA Organiser.
Everyone has a role in creating healthy, happy and safe workplaces, so it’s important we take the time to check in with our coworkers.
Before you reach out, make sure you’re in the right headspace, you’re prepared to listen and can give adequate time to the conversation.
Asking questions like “How are you going?” or “I’ve noticed that you’re not quite yourself lately. How are you travelling?” can help encourage open and positive communication in your workplace.
If you require urgent mental health support, please contact these services for 24/7 crisis support:
LIFELINE 13 11 14
BEYOND BLUE
1300 224 636