Psychosocial risks: when work is harmful to your health
You feel like you can no longer do your job properly, that you don’t have “enough time to do everything,” that you are less focused. Your working relationships have deteriorated, you have become withdrawn, you are exhausted, you have trouble sleeping because of work… These feelings are not insignificant: they may be signs of psychosocial risks related to your work environment. Don’t wait for the situation to get worse!
Understanding psychosocial risks
Psychosocial risks refer to work situations that can cause stress, mental suffering, or physical and psychological health problems. They are directly related to the organization of work, the content of tasks, professional relationships, or the general atmosphere of the company. According to the INRS, the factors identified are:
- Chronic stress, often linked to an imbalance between the tasks required and the resources allocated.
- Moral or sexual harassment, which is unacceptable and deeply destructive behavior.
- Internal violence (between colleagues or with management) or external violence (from customers, users, etc.).
- Work overload, ambiguous roles, or lack of recognition.
These professional situations can lead to mental health issues (anxiety, burnout, depression), as well as physical symptoms such as muscle pain, sleep disorders, or eating disorders. They can also have a significant impact on motivation, commitment, and the smooth functioning of teams.
What are the warning signs?
- You feel more nervous, irritable, anxious, aggressive, or sad.
- You feel less effective at work.
- You have minor health issues: headaches, muscle and joint pain, insomnia, palpitations, etc.
- You feel the need to consume products or medications to “keep going”: coffee, tobacco, alcohol, drugs, sleeping pills, anti-anxiety medication, etc.
- Your eating habits change: you eat more, you snack, or you lose your appetite.
Collective vigilance
Listening, respect, recognition, and quality of life at work are at the heart of our concerns. Even though each situation is unique, awareness of these issues must involve all teams: supervisors, employees, management—everyone has a role to play in identifying warning signs, breaking taboos, and encouraging open communication.
If you are experiencing work-related distress, don’t wait to talk about it. There are several people who can help you. This brochure will direct you to the right people and what they can do to help you.
_
Are you concerned about any of the risks mentioned in this article? Don’t wait to talk about it. Contact the HR department at your site or at JMI Group.