The state of one's mind affects a person's physical, social and economic well-being and so it is especially important for employers to be able to detect the tell-tale signs of a worker under stress.

   This was one of the issues addressed last Friday, at the first annual Welfare Department Mental Health Conference.

   The event took place in the Queen Elizabeth Hospital's (QEH) auditorium where a panel of mental health experts addressed the topic Dignity And Worth Of Individuals: Maintaining Mental Health In The Workplace.

   Some of the indicators identified in individuals working under stress were changes in behaviour, dress and hygiene as well as a change in work attitude.

   In terms of a company, the panel said to look out for signs such as low productivity, high absenteeism, failure to display initiative, fear of decision making, fear of the management, cliques, frequent accidents, high staff turnover, low morale and sabotage as indicators of an unhealthy work environment.

   In addition, they said that in cases where a workforce was large enough, employing more than 300 people, it was a good idea to have a permanent mental health professional on staff.

   In the case of emergency service personnel, the panel advocated the importance of debriefing after mass casualty situations, which they speculated could include the reporters who also responded to the situation.

   Mental health nurse in the Psychiatric Unit of the QEH, Marguerite Holder, outlined some of the ways to relieve stress and preserve mental health in the workplace.

   "Utilise your time and resources wisely; avoid impulsive, aggressive, irrational behaviour; have an insight into your strengths and weaknesses; set realistic goals, respect others, accept assistance when you need help and take time to relax," she said.

   Senior social worker with the Psychiatric Hospital, Geoffrey Small, added: "Do not take home extra work, get adequate rest, take your vacation, take time out for your family and friends, exercise, have a proper diet and get in the habit of seeing a counsellor, there is nothing wrong with seeing one twice a year," he said.

   Another panellist, Florida-based psychologist and University of the West Indies lecturer Michael Campbell, said what he found peculiar to Barbados was their extreme caution in trusting anyone with their personal affairs.

   However, he praised the growing acceptance and public awareness of mental health issues.

--