Worker mental health: New resources from EU-OSHA

Bilbao, Spain — A new report from the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work suggests practical measures – such as changes in work environment, hours and patterns, as well as tasks and equipment – that employers can implement to help and retain workers after mental health-related absences. 

The agency recommends “treating mental health with the same occupational safety and health approach as physical health issues.”

As a complement, EU-OSHA has also published a research review and policy brief. 

The agency encourages employers to prioritize mental health by having a workplace policy that focuses on:

• Preventing work-related psychosocial risk factors.
• Supporting workers or teams that may be more exposed to psychosocial risk factors.
• Supporting return to work and continued working for anyone experiencing mental health issues.
• Promoting mental health and well-being.
• Consulting with and involving workers and their representatives on policies and actions.

“The workplace is an important arena for mental health promotion, and there are various ways to implement support and become an inclusive workplace,” the guidance document states. “Good practices found in this report are applicable to mental health issues irrespective of their origin; more than the type of mental health condition, workers’ unique needs, capabilities and job demands determine which types of workplace practices are helpful in supporting mental health and capacity for work.”