University Study Links Workplace Stressors to Coronavirus

University Study Links Workplace Stressors to Coronavirus

The University of Connecticut’s Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that employee mental health has declined since the onset of the pandemic.

A study conducted by the University of Connecticut School of Nursing found a rise in mental health concerns in employees during the coronavirus pandemic, reports Forbes.

Since the beginning of the study in March, the feelings and attitudes of an estimated 1,000 people have been tracked. Anxiety, worry over finances and uncertainty about job security during the pandemic has been a common concern among workers who have participated in the 18 surveys.

Battling with depression, anxiety or other mental health issues can make working difficult, so the study encourages employers to support workers during this time, as mental health is an important part of workplace safety.

“Based on these findings, it may be particularly important for employers to be mindful and try to minimize feelings of uncertainty for employees, as well as instilling hope or agency in employees,” said researchers.

More information on workplace safety can be found at osha.gov.

About the Author

Nikki Johnson-Bolden is an Associate Content Editor for Occupational Health & Safety.

Product Showcase

  • Preventative Heat Safety

    Dehydration and heat exposure impair physical and cognitive performance. Proper hydration boosts heat stress resilience, but hydration needs are highly individualized and hard to predict across a workforce. Connected Hydration® empowers industrial athletes to stay safe through behavioral interventions, informed by sports science, and equips safety teams with critical insights to anticipate high-risk situations and adapt to evolving environmental factors. Curious about applying the latest in sports science based hydration strategies for industrial athletes? Stop by booth #1112 at AIHA or schedule a free demo today at https://epcr.cc/demo. 3

  • Magid® D-ROC® GPD412 21G Ultra-Thin Polyurethane Palm Coated Work Gloves

    Magid’s 21G line is more than just a 21-gauge glove, it’s a revolutionary knitting technology paired with an advanced selection of innovative fibers to create the ultimate in lightweight cut protection. The latest offering in our 21G line provides ANSI A4 cut resistance with unparalleled dexterity and extreme comfort that no other 21-gauge glove on the market can offer! 3

  • Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker WBGT Monitoring for Workplace Safety

    Ensure safety with the Kestrel® 5400 Heat Stress Tracker, the go-to choice for safety professionals and endorsed by the Heat Safety & Performance Coalition. This robust, waterless WBGT meter is ideal for both indoor and outdoor environments, offering advanced monitoring and data logging essential for OSHA compliance. It features pre-programmed ACGIH guidelines and alert settings to quickly signal critical conditions. Integrated with the cloud-based Ambient Weather Network, the 5400 allows managers to view, track, and log job site conditions remotely, ensuring constant awareness of potential hazards. Its capability for real-time mobile alerts and remote data access promotes proactive safety management and workplace protection, solidifying its role as a crucial tool in industrial hygiene. 3

Featured