The Professional Association of Austrian Psychologists (BÖP) calls for increased attention to mental health in the world of work
Vienna (OTS) – Stress at work can occur from time to time. However, if work overload lasts for a long time, stress can lead to serious physical and mental illnesses. The increasing work pressure and the increasing massive psychological stress in the world of work are reflected in the number of studies on the topic. Accordingly, almost half of domestic employees are at risk of burnout. The Professional Association of Austrian Psychologists (BÖP) calls for the increased use of psychologists with a focus on work, business and organizational psychology.
“We know: Stress can make you sick. Due to current developments in the labor market, more and more employees are suffering from chronic stress, resulting in psychosomatic complaints and psychosocial stress and even burnout. Competent and professional support is needed here. Psychologists with a focus on work, business and organizational psychology can help to create a strategy for the systematic and holistic improvement of working conditions, for the recognition and increase of health-promoting resources and potential, and it is time to finally sufficiently include these “, demands BÖP President ao. University Prof. Dr. Beate Wimmer-Puchinger.
60 percent of employed people are exposed to at least one mental health risk
According to Statistics Austria, around 60 percent of employed people are exposed to at least one mental health risk. More than a third mention time pressure and work overload. Another third complain about dealing with difficult people. This is followed by poor communication, a lack of freedom of choice, an insecure employment relationship, violence and bullying. Psychological stress factors primarily affect those sectors in which personal services are provided.
“In terms of prevention, occupational health promotion and, as a basis, regular surveys of psychological stress as part of workplace evaluations are very effective. We have long known that a healthy working atmosphere and healthy leadership not only have a motivating effect on employees, but also have a positive effect on their mental health,” said ao. University Prof. Dr. Beate Wimmer-Puchinger. And further: “Protective measures help to minimize psychological stress. When developing effective stress-reducing measures, the expertise of psychologists with a focus on work, business and organizational psychology is indispensable.”
Questions & Contact:
Professional Association of Austrian Psychologists (BÖP)
Sabine Stojetz, communication and public relations
Tel: +43 670 40 10 338, press@boep.or.at