Workers experiencing persistent physical discomfort are three times more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression, according to research released Wednesday that explores the concept of “emotional ergonomics” in workplace environments.
The white paper, developed by United Suicide Survivors International, DORN, and MINES and Associates, examines how workplace conditions directly impact both physical and psychological well-being, creating a cycle that affects productivity, attendance and overall employee health.
“Emotional ergonomics bridges the gap between physical safety and mental resilience, ensuring that employee health is not just a compliance checkbox but a business imperative,” said Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas, co-chair of the Workplace Special Interest Group at the International Association for Suicide Prevention and president of United Suicide Survivors International.
The research identifies high job demands, poor ergonomic environments and limited social support as factors that increase burnout, disengagement and absenteeism among workers.
Kevin Lombardo, CEO of DORN Companies, emphasized the importance of comprehensive wellness strategies.
“Addressing industrial ergonomics without considering emotional wellbeing is an incomplete strategy. The most forward-thinking companies recognize that true injury prevention must integrate both,” said Lombardo.
Technology driving prevention efforts
The paper also highlights how emerging technologies are transforming workplace injury prevention, with AI-driven health monitoring, motion-capture technology and predictive analytics reshaping organizational approaches to physical and mental health risks.
Dr. Dani Kimlinger, CEO of MINES and Associates, noted that proper integration of these concepts can foster stronger workplace culture.
“By integrating emotional ergonomics with EAP, behavioral health and wellbeing services, organizations can nurture a culture in which resilience, belonging and sustainable outcomes are supported,” said Kimlinger.
The document provides recommendations for businesses, including implementing comprehensive ergonomic assessments, enhancing mental health support programs and adopting technology solutions to create more adaptive work environments.
For more information, see https://minesandassociates.com/beyond-the-breaking-point-how-the-intersection-of-industrial-ergonomics-pain-and-mental-health-shapes-worker-well-being/
