7 INSTITUTE FOR WORK & HEALTH
A common theme emerging from all sources of evidence for this guide is the importance of various workplace
factors and their impact on the mental health of workers.
Awareness of mental health in the workplace can empower workers to speak up and ask for help as needed.
In contrast, negative workplace factors may worsen workers' experiences of depression. Stigma is another
pervasive issue that may affect depression in the workplace.
Please refer to the Canadian Standard Association (CSA)'s Standard Z1003, Psychological Health and
Safety in the Workplace for more information:
http://shop.csa.ca/en/canada/occupational-health-and-safety-management/cancsa-z1003-
13bnq-9700-8032013/invt/z10032013)
The following content was developed for voluntary use. Ensure you are aware of standards, legislation and
regulations in your jurisdiction.
• Remain aware that workplace risk factors such as high stress, high demand
coupled with low control, conflict, poor scheduling or staffing policies may
cause or worsen depression symptoms.
• Be mindful that workplace-related exposure to trauma, such as witnessing
death, violence or other trauma, may also negatively affect mental health if
no ongoing support and resources for coping are available or offered.
Mental health awareness and
psychological risk factors
