Mahaska Health Partnership Encourages Mental Health in the Workplace

Mahaska Health Partnership

MAHASKA COUNTY – When it comes to health, people usually focus on physical, not mental aspects. Mahaska Health Partnership Behavioral Health Licensed Independent Social Worker April Davis explains the importance of mental well-being and its effect on your overall health, especially in the workplace.

“Your career plays a big part in your life, with most of your week dedicated to the workplace,” Davis shared. “It pays for you to live and have fun; and can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment. However, juggling your work and personal schedules, plus meeting deadlines can lead to stress and anxiety. These feelings cannot only effect your mental health, but your physical health can suffer too. It’s important to not only find a work/life balance, but know how to manage stress to protect your overall well-being.”

Knowing what you bring to your work plays a big role in success and overall happiness. “Figuring out what your talents and interests are is important when searching for a job,” Davis explained. “Finding a career that you’re interested in will make it easier to enjoy going to work every day. By having specialized skills to do your job, you’ll also feel needed and appreciated.

“If you dread going to work each day, you’re going to be unhappy,” Davis continued. “This can lead to depression and anxiety long-term, both of which are not healthy feelings. You don’t have to love your job, but finding something you can enjoy about your workplace and honing your skills will make the workplace a healthier environment for you and your coworkers.”

Developing a routine is another great way to keep stress at bay. “Nothing causes stress quicker than oversleeping!” Davis quipped. “Everyone has their off day, but setting a regular wake and sleep schedule can help minimize them. Outside of work, plan regular dinner dates with a friend or other activities that you can look forward to beyond your daily routine.

“Don’t forget to reward yourself when you’ve earned it too. A movie night or a relaxing evening at home are great stress relievers when you’ve worked hard and achieved a goal,” Davis said. “Be sure to make time for yourself too; whether it’s yoga, an evening walk, reading a good book or taking a bath, find something you enjoy to let go of your daily worries; your body will thank you!”

Since most of your day is spent there, make sure your workplace is also set up to maximize your well-being. “Try to keep the negativity at a minimum,” Davis suggested. “Do you have a coworker that never has anything good to say? Don’t let them drag you down! Keep your work environment comfortable too. Whether its snacks, a playlist to keep you motivated or family photos, adding some of your favorite items can help bring warmth to the office.”

While taking steps to make your job more enjoyable can help, there are always going to be hard days. “Remember that nobody is perfect and everyone makes mistakes,” Davis reminded. “If you take longer to get a project finished, that’s okay, don’t beat yourself up when things don’t go as planned. Your job can enhance your life, just like you can enhance your workplace; remember to focus on the positive to stay positive!”

April Davis, LISW, IADC is a Therapist with Behavioral Health Services at Mahaska Health Partnership. She provides individual mental health and substance abuse therapy. In her free time, April enjoys spending time with her family and riding motorcycles. To schedule an appointment with April or another Behavioral Health Specialist, call 641.672.3159.

Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, visit mahaskahealth.org.