The psychological benefits of working

August 25, 2024
5:25 am

Psychological benefits of being employed

There is significant negative press surrounding poor mental health, the rise in workers’ compensation costs and poor work design contributing to burn out. We don’t disagree, but instead of focusing on what’s going wrong, we decided to take a different approach. What if we shift the conversation to what is going right? What are the psychological benefits of working? Let’s explore 10 key factors that can actually boost employee well-being at work, helping to create a healthier, more supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

We explored the literature and found that work offers several psychological benefits that contribute to an employee’s overall well-being and mental health. These benefits include:

Sense of Purpose and Identity: Work provides a sense of purpose and helps individuals define their identity. It gives people a reason to get up in the morning and contributes to their sense of self-worth.
Social Interaction and Connection: Workplaces offer opportunities for social interaction, helping to build relationships and connections with colleagues. These interactions can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, fostering a sense of belonging.

Structure and Routine: Having a job introduces structure and routine into daily life, which can be comforting and provide stability. A consistent schedule can help manage time effectively and reduce feelings of aimlessness.
Skill Development and Achievement: Work allows individuals to develop new skills, face challenges, and achieve goals. This sense of accomplishment boosts self-esteem and confidence.
Financial Independence: Earning a salary or wage provides financial security, reducing stress related to economic stability. This independence can enhance personal freedom and decision-making power.

Stress Relief through Engagement: Engaging in meaningful work can act as a distraction from personal problems, providing a mental break and reducing stress. The sense of being productive and contributing to something larger than oneself can be fulfilling.
Mental Stimulation: Many jobs require problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking, which can keep the mind active and engaged. This mental stimulation is essential for cognitive health.
Contribution to Society: Work often involves contributing to society in some way, whether through a service, product, or innovation. Knowing that one’s efforts positively impact others can enhance a sense of pride and fulfillment.

Work-Life Balance: For many, work helps to create a balance between professional and personal life. A well-managed work-life balance can lead to greater overall satisfaction and happiness.
Personal Growth and Development: Work provides opportunities for personal growth through learning, facing challenges, and overcoming obstacles. This growth contributes to a sense of personal achievement and self-improvement.

The science behind these benefits can be encapsulated in the concept of a “psychologically safe” organisation. Employees who feel comfortable sharing information and knowledge, voicing suggestions for organisational improvements, and taking the initiative to develop new products and services experience psychological safety in their workplace. Extensive research indicates that psychological safety is a key factor in enabling teams and organizations to learn, grow, and excel in their performance.

Consultancy

If your organisation requires help with designing a psychological safe workplace and assistance with understanding your psychosocial risk profile, please contact our HSEQ Consultants 08 9202 6812.

Reference

Blustein, D. L., Olle, C., Connors-Kellgren, A., & Diamonti, A. J. (2016). Decent Work: A Psychological Perspective. Frontiers in Psychology, 7, 407–407. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2016.00407

Edmondson, A. C., & Lei, Z. (2014). Psychological safety: The history, renaissance, and future of an interpersonal construct. Annu. Rev. Organ. Psychol. Organ. Behav., 1(1), 23-43.

Muse, L., Harris, S. G., Giles, W. F., & Feild, H. S. (2008). Work-life benefits and positive organizational behavior: is there a connection? Journal of Organizational Behavior, 29(2), 171–192. https://doi.org/10.1002/job.506