Mental Health Issues in the Workplace
Mental health has been defined as a state of well-being where one is able to:
- Realize their potential,
- Cope with the normal stresses of life,
- Work productively and fruitfully, and
- Has the ability to make a contribution to their community.
Common Mental Illnesses in the Workplace
- Major Depressive Disorders
- Anxiety Disorder
- Somatoform Disorders
- Drug Abuse & Dependence
- Bipolar Affective Disorder
- Schizophrenia
Warning Signs of Common Mental Illnesses (usually marked as lasting for at least two weeks)
- Unusual Behavior or drop in functioning
- Distortion in the interpretation/perception of reality
Illogical thinking
- Change in mood
- Apathy
- Sleep or appetite changes
- Social withdrawal
Improving Your Mental Health
- Be informed
- Learn healthier ways to cope with stress
- Exercise
- Get connected and contribute
- Seek proper healthcare
NB: The only shameful thing about mental illness is the stigma attached to it; Mental Illness is not a defect in CHARACTER but a defect in CHEMISTRY; Don’t let your struggle become your identity!!!
Learn More
Globally, more than 300 million people suffer from depression, the leading cause of disability, with many of these people also suffering from symptoms of anxiety.
Corona Virus (COVID-19)
What is Coronavirus?
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. However, some will become seriously ill and require medical attention. Older people and those with underlying medical conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, or cancer are more likely to develop serious illness. Anyone can get sick with COVID-19 and become seriously ill or die at any age. The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well informed about the disease and how the virus spreads. Protect yourself and others from infection by staying at least 1 meter apart from others, wearing a properly fitted mask, and washing your hands or using an alcohol-based rub frequently. Get vaccinated when it’s your turn and follow local guidance. The virus can spread from an infected person’s mouth or nose in small liquid particles when they cough, sneeze, speak, sing or breathe. These particles range from larger respiratory droplets to smaller aerosols. It is important to practice respiratory etiquette, for example by coughing into a flexed elbow, and to stay home and self-isolate until you recover if you feel unwell.
Prevention?
To prevent infection and to slow transmission of COVID-19, do the following:
- Get vaccinated when a vaccine is available to you.
- Stay at least 1 meter apart from others, even if they don’t appear to be sick.
- Wear a properly fitted mask when physical distancing is not possible or when in poorly ventilated settings.
- Choose open, well-ventilated spaces over closed ones. Open a window if indoors.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or clean them with alcohol-based hand rub.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- If you feel unwell, stay home and self-isolate until you recover.
Symptoms?
COVID-19 affects different people in different ways. Most infected people will develop mild to moderate illness and recover without hospitalization.
Most common symptoms:
- Fever
- Cough
- Tiredness
- Loss of taste or smell
Less common symptoms:
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Aches and pains
- Diarrhoea
- A rash on skin, or discolouration of fingers or toes red or irritated eyes.
Serious symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Loss of speech or mobility, or confusion
- Chest pain.
NB:
- Seek immediate medical attention if you have serious symptoms.
- Always call before visiting your doctor or health facility.
- People with mild symptoms who are otherwise healthy should manage their symptoms at home.
- On average it takes 5–6 days from when someone is infected with the virus for symptoms to show, however it can take up to 14 days.
Learn More
The first known infections from SARS-CoV-2 were discovered in Wuhan, China. The original source of viral transmission to humans remains unclear, as does whether the virus became pathogenic before or after the spillover event.
WORLD HEPATITIS DAY 2023
July 28th is World Hepatitis Day (WHD), a day when we raise our collective voices to call for more action for the awareness of viral hepatitis. This year's theme, ‘We are not waiting,’ stresses health education, screening, and early detection.
Here's the latest update on Hepatitis B, an important topic on WHD's agenda.
What is Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver and can cause acute and chronic diseases. It is transmitted through contact with an infected person's blood or other body fluids.
Did You Know?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 257 million people live with chronic Hepatitis B worldwide, with approximately 887,000 deaths each year due to complications from the infection.
What are the signs and symptoms of hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B symptoms vary: some experience none, while others may have fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, dark urine, jaundice, joint pain, and rashes.
How do you stay safe from hepatitis B?
Vaccination is vital in preventing Hepatitis B! Stay updated on the Hepatitis B vaccine for lifelong protection. Practice safe sex, use clean needles, and handle blood or bodily fluids with caution to lower infection risks.
How do I know if I’m safe?
Early detection is vital for managing Hepatitis B. Regular screening is essential, especially for high-risk populations like those born to infected mothers or in endemic areas.
A blood test can determine if you have acute or chronic Hepatitis B.
Is there a cure for hepatitis B?
While there is no cure for Hepatitis B, antivirals manage the infection, reduce liver damage risk, and prevent complications.
We urge you to seize the opportunity of World Hepatitis Day and join us in the global fight against viral hepatitis by reaching out to us for more information.
Remember, knowledge is power. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, we can significantly impact the prevention and treatment of Hepatitis B.
Stay healthy and stay informed!