The most noteworthy factor triggering these suicidal thoughts, even in individuals without depression, was the perception of unfair compensation at their workplace. (Image credit: Kobiz Media/Korea Bizwire)
SEOUL, Sept. 14 (Korea Bizwire) —A recent study has revealed that some workers, despite not experiencing depression, have contemplated ending their own lives, and this tendency is often associated with receiving inadequate compensation.
In 2023, a team of researchers at the Corporate Mental Health Research Center of Kangbuk Samsung Medical Center in South Korea conducted an examination of the experiences of Korean workers.
They uncovered that 16.2 percent of these workers had entertained thoughts of suicide, even though they had not received an official diagnosis of depression.
To comprehend the reasons behind this phenomenon, another group of researchers from the Psychiatry Department at Kangbuk Samsung Medical Center examined 14,425 Korean workers who had utilized the counseling services offered by the Samsung Corporate Mental Health Institute between 2015 and 2019.
Their objective was to identify the work-related stress factors contributing to suicidal thoughts among non-depressed workers.
Their findings indicated that the category of workers who were not experiencing depression but were having thoughts of suicide tended to be predominantly female and middle-aged or older, rather than younger.
Additionally, this group exhibited reduced resilience in recovering from stressful events, reported higher levels of stress and anxiety, and experienced less sleep compared to the general population.
The most noteworthy factor triggering these suicidal thoughts, even in individuals without depression, was the perception of unfair compensation at their workplace.
Employee assessment of compensation referred to the adequacy of their compensation for their work, including factors such as their salary, job satisfaction, workplace respect, and recognition for their dedication and hard work.
Their findings indicated that the category of workers who were not experiencing depression but were having thoughts of suicide tended to be predominantly female and middle-aged or older, rather than younger. (Image credit: Kobiz Media/ Korea Bizwire)
Dr. Jeon Sang-won, who was part of the research team, explained, “Receiving fair compensation at work serves as a protective factor against anxiety and depression. Conversely, inadequate compensation can lead to stress and mental health issues.
This is particularly significant because inadequate compensation in the workplace can lead to thoughts of suicide, even in the absence of depression.”
Dr. Cho Seong-jun, another researcher involved in the study, added, “Most workplace mental health assessments typically focus on individuals who are experiencing depression.
This means that those who are contemplating suicide but do not have depression may not receive the necessary support. It is crucial to expand our understanding of who is at risk and establish strategies and support systems to assist them.”
These findings were published in the international journal Psychiatry Investigation.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
