KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jesutofunmi Simpson, a clinical psychologist at Bellevue Hospital, is shedding light on the often-ignored workplace stressors that are significantly impacting the mental health of the working-class population. Simpson identifies economic pressures, job dissatisfaction, and micromanagement as primary contributors to employee stress and unhappiness. ‘When your income doesn’t cover your expenses, stress is inevitable. This financial strain, coupled with a lack of fulfillment at work, creates a challenging environment,’ Simpson explained in a recent interview with JIS News. She emphasized that job satisfaction goes beyond workload, highlighting the importance of employees feeling that their work has a meaningful impact. The discussion on mental health was particularly relevant during Mental Health Awareness Week (October 5-12) and Global Mental Health Day (October 10), as Jamaica faces a concerning rise in suicides, with 44 reported cases between January and September 2025. Simpson advocates for building workplace resilience to combat daily stressors. ‘Resilience is about adaptability and bouncing back from challenges. In the workplace, this means navigating difficulties and understanding that recovery is possible,’ she said. To foster resilience, Simpson recommends emotional regulation, stress management, and maintaining a clear boundary between work and personal life. She also encourages employees to engage in hobbies, seek support, and utilize their full breaks. For managers and business owners, she stresses the importance of flexible work arrangements and a collaborative culture to reduce burnout. Burnout, characterized by emotional and physical exhaustion, is a severe consequence of chronic workplace stress. Simpson advises individuals to prioritize rest, practice relaxation techniques, and set boundaries. From an organizational perspective, she calls for proactive stress prevention measures, such as fostering a supportive work environment and encouraging employees to stay connected with loved ones.
Clinical psychologist highlights workplace stressors that undermine mental well-being
