MENTAL HEALTH WITHIN THE WORKPLACE

Stress, depression and anxiety are the most common health concerns within the community (as confirmed via health presentations in GP clinics). These concerns are also reflected within the workplace where a recent study called the WORC Project noted that about 5 % of the workforce (or 1 in every 20 workers) has experienced a mental health problem and that this costs organisations over $9,000 per year for every employee not treated.

In the same way that organisations ask employees to undertake initial health checks and ongoing job reviews, it would now also be seen as highly desirable for employees to go through a regular mental health check so that problems can be identified and worked on the earlier stages. This can avoid problems getting worse and leading to longer term mental health issues which can, in turn, affect the individual's overall life as well as his/her work output and productivity.

The Australian Health Assist Program makes psychological tools available and accessible to people in order to help them gain a clear perspective of their lives, supports clear decisions and effective changes.

The Personal Health Audit and Personalised Action Plan have been developed as an intensive, single session support package and can be used as a proactive option where employees are seen to be struggling with work and with life generally, or as part of an integrated health and well being program.

Personal Health Audit

The Personalised Health Audit helps people highlight their areas of concern, brings to their attention the positive or better working aspects of their lives and may help them identify other challenges that they had not been aware of.

Employees undertake a computer program involving a self-assessment questionnaire that generates a report on key aspects of their lives, such as, relationship difficulties, anger management, addictions, significant life events etc.

The questionnaire is presented in such a way, as to encourage participants to reflect on their lives, evaluate the effectiveness of their styles, fostering greater personal understanding, drawing links with different aspects of their lives, and written in such a way as to leave participants feeling clear, empowered and able to move ahead in their lives.

Personalised Action Plan

The results of the Personal Health Audit are summarised in a report and presented to the participant. A qualified and experienced psychologist will help the participant review their report and develop a Personalised Action Plan for their future.

The follow up session, with a professional psychologist, helps the participant:

  • gain a clear understanding of their situation
  • establishes their strengths and weaknesses,
  • pinpoints priorities of concern, and
  • outline a change plan which includes specific referrals for follow-up.

    • A clear plan of action is developed and appropriate referrals are provided that address the needs of participant.