Mental Health at Work

Why is mental health in the workplace important?

Mental health in the workplace is crucial for employee well-being, productivity, and overall success. Challenges like work-related stress, bullying, and unrealistic deadlines can impact mental health. Creating a supportive work environment is essential for promoting mental well-being.

What causes poor mental health at work?

• Work-related stress and pressure;
• Poor work-life balance;
• Bullying and harassment;
• Discrimination;
• Unclear job expectations;
• High job demands;
• Lack of support from colleagues and managers.

Certain behaviours at work can negatively affect your mental health are known as psychosocial hazards. These hazards can also result in physical harm. Employees can report these hazards to NT Work Safe.

What if my Mental Health impacts me at work?

Mental health can impact employees in different ways. It is important that Employers do not assume how a diagnosis may impact their employees.

If you require a reasonable adjustment to your work you can negotiate directly with your employer. For more information see Factsheet Eighteen Negotiating with your Employer. 

Mental health conditions and their impacts may fluctuate so if supports are needed, they will need to be reviewed regularly. 

Additionally, under the National Employment Standards, employees with a disability can request flexible working arrangements. See Factsheet Four Flexible Working Arrangements for more information. 

Where can I go for counselling? 

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and it’s essential to prioritise your mental health in the workplace. If you have any specific questions or need more information or assistance, please see the below:

Many workplaces offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services that provide confidential counselling and support for employees facing mental health challenges.

Your General Practitioner (GP) can provide you with a diagnosis and the appropriate referral. They are also able to create a mental health care plan if you are eligible for Medicare.

Otherwise, you can access free 24/7 phone counselling services.

• Lifeline 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue 1300 224 636
• Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467
• 13 YARN 13 92 76 (for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Peoples)
• Qlife 1800 184 527 (for LGBTQIA+ support) (3PM – Midnight)