psychology · consultation topic
Occupational health psychology
Psychological health at work involves the relationship between working conditions and wellbeing.
What it is
Psychological health at work involves the relationship between working conditions and wellbeing.
The WHO identifies risks such as excessive workload, little control and lack of support, and describes actions addressing the work environment.
Who it is for
This may interest workers and organisations seeking to understand mental health factors associated with work.
How it may work
The Ordem dos Psicólogos describes assessment and intervention in psychosocial risks and quality of working life, among other contexts. The WHO also addresses organisational measures: that framework does not describe a specific appointment.
Preparation
It may be helpful to identify work situations you wish to discuss, without assuming that a difficulty is caused exclusively by work.
What to expect
The approach may involve action on the work context and appropriate support; individual assessment does not replace organisational measures.
Limits
The risk does not permit diagnosis of an individual or confirm that psychological intervention is available.
Frequently asked questions
What are psychosocial risks at work?
The WHO gives examples including excessive workload, little control and lack of support.
Does the response depend only on the worker?
No. The WHO also describes organisational interventions addressing working conditions.
Does the field include assessment?
The OPP describes assessment and intervention in psychosocial risks among several areas of practice; it does not confirm that this service is offered.
Sources
- What to ask your doctor or other healthcare professional — NHS
- Mental health at work — WHO
- Psicologia do Trabalho, Social e das Organizações — OPP – PsiCarreiras
Related fields
Related topics
- Occupational health psychology