Mental health risks in the workplace: Fundamentals for works councils

Work intensification, downsizing, restructuring, the introduction of artificial intelligence and its consequences for the workplace, poor work organisation, and poor staff management have all caused a steady rise in mental and psychosomatic illnesses among employees. Health insurance companies and the Gemeinsame Deutsche Arbeitsschutzstrategie (Joint German Occupational Health and Safety Strategy) are focusing on the issue, and companies are increasingly working on preventative measures.

In this training course, you will learn how working conditions, stress, and consequences such as exhaustion and mental illness are intertwined. A basic overview of the options available to works councils will be provided.

The training course at a glance:

• The significance of the increase in workplace stress for occupational health and safety
• Mental health risks (e.g., work intensification, indirect control) and possible consequences for employees
• Scientific background knowledge and legal basis
• The works council’s role and its co-determination rights in occupational health and safety
• Possible allies to advise and support the works council