Persons with Mental Health are not a Risk at Workplace – Psychiatrist

A Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr. Maymunah Kadiri has said patient with mental health do not pose danger at workplace, such people must be taking medications for the mental health condition they have.

The mental health advocate, Dr. Kadiri, who is the Medical Director and Psychiatrist-In-Chief at Pinnacle Medical Services, stated in an interview that as long as such patients are taking medications, they do not pose any danger at work.

“There is no danger in employing someone who may have mental health challenges as long as the person is getting constant help and their condition does not pose danger to other people.”

People who suffer from hallucinations, delusions and irrational beliefs may pose risks at their place of work, noting that companies need to have an employee assistance programme to facilitate early detection and treatment of such cases.

“With employee assistance programme service, such conditions can be detected early and treatment started before things escalate,” she added.

The psychiatrist further noted that mental health training should be made mandatory for employers, such training will encourage them to be more aware of and invested in the mental wellbeing of their employees.

“Companies should train managers on what to do if they see signs of emotional distress or substance abuse.

“Use mental health calculators to estimate the prevalence and associated costs of untreated depression and alcohol and substance abuse at your workplace,” she said.

Kadiri encouraged employees to share their mental health struggles with their employers.

She also urged employers and human resources executives to pay attention to employees and take note of any display or appearance that may indicate mental health struggles.

Such signs may include an abnormal appearance, mood swings, erratic behavior, getting easily irritated or having moments of confusion.

Other signs include paranoia about fellow workers, withdrawal from social situations, especially with co-workers and abuse of drugs, alcohol, or other vices.