Following a report I read of the suicide of a staff member at a financial institution in South Africa, I would like to reflect on our workplaces and how they can affect mental health here in Lesotho.
Toxic work environments can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental health. From excessive workloads and unrealistic expectations to bullying and harassment, there are many factors that can contribute to a toxic workplace culture.
One study found that employees who experience high levels of workplace stress are more likely to suffer from mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. This can affect their ability to focus, make decisions, and interact with colleagues, ultimately impacting their job performance. This diminished performance also affects customer service which has an impact on profitability. Lesotho has a scourge of service delivery due to skills, attitude and apathy. Mental health should not be a contributory factor as well.
Toxic work environments can also lead to physical health problems such as headaches, fatigue, and insomnia. This can further exacerbate the mental health issues that employees may be experiencing.
It’s important for employers to recognize the signs of a toxic work environment and take steps to address them. This can involve implementing policies and procedures to prevent bullying and harassment, providing support for employees who are experiencing stress, and promoting a culture of open communication and collaboration. There are localized programs that corporates can implement within their work places to avoid such unfortunate incidents from affecting us here in Lesotho.
Employees can also take steps to protect their mental health in toxic work environments. This may involve setting boundaries with colleagues, seeking support from a therapist or counselor, and practicing self-care activities such as exercise and mindfulness.
It’s crucial for both employers and employees to prioritize mental health in the workplace and work together to create a positive and supportive work environment. This can lead to improved job satisfaction, productivity, and overall well-being for all employees.
Let’s thrive in our workplaces in Lesotho to ensure the safety of our employees and provide quality service to customers ànd at the same time, improve our economy.
Khotso. Pula. Nala
BY ABUBACAR JABBIE