Employment
Overview
Employment can play an important role in supporting mental health and overall well-being. A fulfilling job can provide structure, a sense of purpose, social connection, and financial stability – all of which contribute to a healthier, more balanced life.
Work can also foster resilience, confidence, and personal growth. Engaging in meaningful employment allows you to develop skills, build relationships, and gain a sense of accomplishment.
Work can be a powerful tool for your mental well-being when it aligns with your strengths, needs, and values. While challenges may arise, the right support and workplace adjustments can help create an environment where you can thrive professionally and personally.
How Employment Supports Mental Health
Purpose and structure
A regular work routine can provide structure to your days, while daily responsibilities and goals can foster a sense of purpose, motivation, and accomplishment.
Social Connection
Workplaces provide opportunities to build relationships, create support networks, and engage in meaningful interactions. Social connection can reduce feelings of isolation and contribute to emotional well-being.
Skill development and confidence
Learning new skills, achieving professional goals, receiving recognition and taking on opportunities for growth can boost your self-esteem and provide a sense of achievement.
Financial Security
Earning an income provides financial security, reduces stress, and enables access to resources that support mental health, such as therapy, healthcare, and recreational activities.
Workplace Adjustments and Support
Many employers are open to making reasonable adjustments to support well-being. Options may include:
- Flexible work arrangements – Adjusting work hours, hybrid work arrangements or allowing you to work remotely from home
- Workplace modifications – Providing quiet spaces, ergonomic adjustments, or assistive technology
- Mental health policies and support – Access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), mental health days, or supportive workplace practices
Clear communication and workload expectations – Encouraging open conversations and setting realistic job responsibilities
Next Steps
If you’re looking for work, returning to the workforce, or seeking to improve your current work experience, consider:
- Prioritising self-care and maintaining healthy work boundaries
- Exploring employment support services for guidance
- Identifying workplace adjustments that support your well-being
- Seeking professional support if work-related stress impacts your mental health
If you need support, there are services available to help you navigate your employment journey.
Finding Support and Employment Services
If you’re looking for work or need support in your current role, there are services available to help:
Talking to Your Employer
If you feel comfortable, speaking with your employer, manager, or HR team about your mental health needs can help create a more supportive work environment. Many workplaces have policies to provide reasonable adjustments for mental health conditions.
Employment Support Services
- Disability Employment Services (DES) – government-funded programs that assist people with mental health conditions in finding and maintaining employment
- JobAccess – provides advice, information, and funding to support employees with disabilities, as well as employers and service providers
- Employment Assistance Fund (EAF) – provides reimbursements for workplace modifications, equipment and services necessary for a person with disability to perform their employment duties, whether working, about to start work, or self-employed.