Seeing something disturbing once in your life is inevitable, especially during a time when social media is so prevalent. It can also be tough to escape some unpleasant situations. Conflicts happen in our personal lives as well as at the workplace. Now, take a moment and imagine that dealing with disturbing content is your day job. What would you do?
According to Reuters, a former Facebook moderator in California gets the picture, and is filing a lawsuit after facing mental trauma. The social networking company is being accused of not providing protection to contractors who review traumatizing pictures and videos on a daily basis.
Negative working conditions impact physical and mental health
Mental trauma, also associated with post-traumatic stress disorder, is nothing new in the workforce. Military members, police officers, healthcare workers and journalist are just a few professionals vulnerable to stressful situations and burnouts. Unfortunately, working in office settings can pose similar threats to an employee’s wellbeing.
Just like companies are responsible for the physical protection of their employees, mental wellbeing deserves protections as well. Employers can reduce the risk of decreased mental health by providing support, such as:
- Access to mental health resources
- Individual and group counseling
- Trained onsite professionals
- Psychosocial support
- Wellness resources
Workplace interventions can positively impact mental health, which often leads to productivity and a healthier work environment for everyone. While it is important for employers to recognize issues that affect mental health, it is also important they act when problems occur.