Mental Health and Performance

Mental health, besides its myriad of consequences, has one integral effect we don't always think about: our performance at work and university. Mental health affects our work in the following ways:

1. Ability to concentrate

Mental health can affect our performance is by causing an inability to dismiss environmental stimuli. Various studies have shown concentration is directly affected by our mental wellness.

2. Lethargy and Stress

Low levels of mental wellness may also result in us experiencing lethargy and difficulty handling time pressures or multiple tasks. 

3. Response to change and criticism

We may not receive negative feedback well, and our mental illness may cause us to respond negatively to change. 

4. Social interactions

If we are mentally unwell, we may struggle to interact with others at work, especially when it's impossible to avoid at a busy office.

However, there are ways we as leaders and co-workers can aid each other when things don't seem as sunny as they could be. We can stay vigilant and work to stop the stigma about mental health.

Mild changes to the office can also be a great help!

Healthy lunch options, installing daylight lamps, and allowing time for walks can reduce the consequences of mental unwellness. Alternating seating arrangements have also shown a big difference for SAD sufferers and a company's bottom line. 

Remember, it's okay not to be okay! Asking for help when you're struggling makes you strong, not weak :)