Work is central to our identity and sense of well-being.
Freud observed that both work and love are essential in maintaining emotional, physical and mental health. Organizational and occupational psychiatrists study the psychopathology brought to and resulting from the work setting, as well as factors that stimulate healthy behavior and functioning. Organizational and occupational psychiatrists then utilize consultative, clinical, educational and preventive interventions and strategies to reduce symptoms and conflict, and facilitate health and well-being. For more than 70 years, organizational and occupational psychiatrists have pioneered in the diagnosis, treatment and research of workplace health-mental health conditions. Unlike psychologists, social workers and other occupational health and mental health personnel, organizational and occupational psychiatrists have the medical and psychiatric training and expertise to address the complexities of workplace health and mental health issues.