“A person may feel depressed, irritable and express cynicism. They may want to be more isolated and lose interest in everyday activities that they previously enjoyed,” says Dr Felicia Neo, director and clinical psychologist at Neo Cooper Psychology Clinic.
Psychologists share six ways that people can prioritise their mental well-being and lead more fulfilling lives at work.
1. Know what is important to you
Many people might feel immense feelings of dissatisfaction without realising that they might not be fully aware of what values are important to them, says Dr Annabelle Chow, principal clinical psychologist at Annabelle Psychology.
“For example, we might believe that we would be happier if we got a raise or promotion. But we do not realise that the values most important to us might be recognition of our hard work by peers and colleagues, and not a raise or promotion,” she adds. Hence, take some time to think of the values that are important to you.
2. Ask yourself if the job scope aligns with your values
Take stock of whether your job scope aligns with your values. Speak to your manager on whether there might be opportunities to take up other roles or responsibilities that might be more in line with those values, advises Dr Chow.
“You can ask if adjustments can be made to various parts of your job to feel more satisfied and fulfilled by it,” she suggests.
3. Raise your concerns
Issues related to job skills, clarity of your role and feeling unrecognised can first be raised with your manager, says Mr Benjamin Low, a clinical psychologist and corporate wellness consultant at Psych Connect.
“It is not uncommon for us to put on a front to show that we’re managing things well. This may mean that those around us may not know there’s a problem until they’re told,” he adds.
4. Set healthy boundaries
You can set healthy boundaries at work by letting your supervisors know if there is too much work on your plate.
For example, Dr Chow suggests that employers can tell their managers: “Thank you for entrusting this task to me. I would not be able to complete this task in the allocated time as I have other pending tasks to complete. Can you please help me prioritise which task you would like me to complete first?”
5. Manage your time well
Work hard at completing tasks during working hours and not during non-working hours.
Dr Chow says this might not always be possible, depending on the nature of your work.
If you must work during non-work hours, make sure you set aside sufficient time for rest and relaxing activities.
“Setting these boundaries are easier said than done, but with practice, one will gradually improve at achieving a harmonious blend of work and personal life,” adds Dr Chow.
6. Companies have a part to play
Dr Neo says there are steps that employers can take to look out for their workers’ mental health.
These include reviewing current wellness programmes, reducing the stigma of accepting mental health support, building connections through check-ins, and modifying policies and workplace practices that encourage and facilitate work-life balance.
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