Personal, Social, and Workplace Environmental Factors Related to Psychological Well-Being of Staff in University Settings.

BACKGROUND: Understanding the psychological well-being (PWB) of university staff and factors that influence it is critical for developing intervention programs that promote PWB and enhance productivity and worker engagement. PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess the level of PWB in university staff and identify personal, social, and workplace environmental factors related to their PWB. METHODS: A cross-sectional, correlational study design was used. A convenience sample of university staff was recruited from two universities in Texas. Participants completed an online questionnaire, which included Ryff's PWB scale to measure PWB, along with questions related to personal, social, and workplace factors. Hierarchical multiple regression was used to analyze the influence of these factors on the PWB of university staff. RESULTS: The PWB of university staff (n = 202) was significantly influenced by personal factors (i.e., race and perceived mental health status), social factors (i.e., social support of friends), and workplace environmental factors (i.e., physical demands). CONCLUSION/APPLICATION TO PRACTICE: To effectively promote PWB among university staff, occupational health nurses should proactively track and monitor their PWB. Policies and interventions should consider the various personal, social, and workplace environment factors identified in this study, such as mental health, social support resources, and physical demands.

Workplace Psychological Distress: A Concept Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Workplace psychological distress (WPD) significantly impacts employees' mental and physical well-being. However, WPD has not been well-defined in the literature as a concept. This concept analysis aims to clarify the concept of WPD and promote the use of the term in occupational health nursing research. METHODS: Strategies introduced by Walker and Avant's conceptual analysis method will be utilized to conceptualize WPD and its impact on employees. A literature search was conducted using Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Business Source Complete, and APA PsycArticles. The keyword search included the terms "workplace" AND "employee" AND "psychological distress." RESULTS: Antecedents of WPD are an increase in job demands, lack of control, low support, and workplace bullying. Defining attributes for WPD are extreme fatigue, role conflict, and time pressures. Consequences of WPD were identified as mental disorders, physical disorders, and loss in productivity. This concept was further illustrated using a model, borderline, and contrary case. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: Identifying signs of WPD is of great importance in caring for employees in the workplace. Occupational health nurses can use information obtained from a workplace assessment to develop policies, implement well-being programs, and provide employee referrals.

Focus on the aging worker.

This article discusses select characteristics of the aging work force, health-related issues that can impact work productivity, and strategies and resources that can foster a more productive work environment. The older work force is vital to the future of the U.S. economy. Employers should recognize the value of older workers. Occupational health nurses can assist older workers in maintaining and optimizing their health.