The following is a series of videos, presentation slides and supporting materials that can assist trainers, team leaders, managers or others to facilitate discussions aimed at developing a psychologically healthy and safe workplace.

Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace Introduction


Psychological Support

Psychological Support is present in a work environment in which coworkers and supervisors are supportive of employees' psychological and mental health concerns and respond appropriately as needed.


Growth & Development

Growth & Development are present in a work environment where employees receive encouragement and support in the development of their interpersonal, emotional, and job skills.


Work/Life Balance

Work/Life Balance is present in a work environment where there is recognition of the need for balance between the demands of work, family, and personal life.


Workload Management

Workload Management is present in a work environment where tasks and responsibilities can be accomplished successfully within the time available.


Psychological Protection

Psychological Protection is present in a work environment where employees' psychological safety is ensured. Workplace psychological safety is demonstrated when workers feel able to safely ask questions, seek feedback, report mistakes and problems, or propose a new idea without fearing negative consequences to themselves, their jobs or their careers.
 

Engagement

Engagement is present in a work environment where employees feel connected to their work and are motivated to do their job well.


Protection of Physical Safety

Protection of Physical Safety is present in a work environment where management takes appropriate action to protect the physical safety of employees. Appropriate actions may include: policy to protect workers physical safety, training in safety-related protocols, rapid and appropriate response to physical accidents or unsafe situations, and clearly demonstrated concern for employees' physical safety.


Other Chronic Stressors

 

Other Chronic Stressors Identified by Workers should also be considered when creating a mentally healthy workplace. These other key issues include stigma and discrimination, stress, presenteeism and addiction issues.


Recognition & Reward

Recognition & Reward are present in a work environment where there is appropriate acknowledgement and appreciation of employees' efforts in a fair and timely manner.

Organizational Culture

Organizational Culture is the degree to which a work culture is characterized by trust, honesty, and fairness.


Civility & Respect

Civility & Respect are present in a work environment where employees are respectful and considerate in their interactions with one another, as well as with customers, clients, and the public.


Involvement & Influence

Involvement & Influence are present in a work environment where employees are included in discussions about how their work is done and how important decisions are made.


Clear Leadership & Expectations

Clear Leadership & Expectations are present in an environment in which leadership is effective and there is support that helps employees know what they need to do, how their work contributes to the organization and whether there are impending changes.


Psychological Competencies & Requirements

Psychological Competencies & Requirements, or Psychological Job Demands, are present in a work environment where there is a good fit between employees' interpersonal and emotional competencies and the requirements of the position they hold.

About these videos

The video series is a 2014 joint project of the University of Waterloo and the Great-West Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace.

In the videos, Linda Brogden, Occupational Health Nurse, University of Waterloo, and Mary Ann Baynton, Program Director, Great-West Life Centre for Mental Health in the Workplace, take you through each of the factors that impact psychological health and safety in the workplace.