Mental fitness at work

Paula Robinson*, Lindsay G. Oades

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

This chapter introduces the concept of mental fitness and its association to mental health and well-being, particularly in the workplace. Physical fitness is a combination of qualities that enable individuals to be at their full potential in performing vigorous physical activities and involve endurance, strength & flexibility. Mental illness is a costly component of organizational life and may be considered in terms of risk assessment. Stigma and conceptual confusion surrounding mental health are significant barriers to mental illness prevention, mental health promotion, and engagement in positive mental health activities and practices. Positive psychology and neural plasticity research has become a promising area for positive mental health activities across multiple contexts, with evidence suggesting that throughout the lifespan individuals are able to learn and grow. A critical review of literature, which led to the development of mental fitness, is provided before focusing on the conceptual application of mental fitness to work.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationThe Wiley Blackwell handbook of the psychology of positivity and strengths-based approaches at work
EditorsLindsay G. Oades, Michael F. Steger, Antonella Delle Fave, Jonathan Passmore
Place of PublicationChichester, West Sussex
PublisherWiley-Blackwell, Wiley
Pages150-170
Number of pages21
ISBN (Electronic)9781118977620
ISBN (Print)9781118977651
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2017
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameWiley Blackwell Handbooks in Organizational Psychology
PublisherWiley Blackwell

Keywords

  • Mental fitness
  • Mental health activities
  • Mental illness prevention
  • Neural plasticity research
  • Organizational life
  • Positive psychology
  • Psychological literature
  • Risk assessment
  • Workplace

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