Occupational Health and Wellbeing : Challenges and Opportunities in Theory and Practice

This book bridges the gap between theory and practice, incorporating real-world case studies to show how organisations and leaders can adapt after the global unrest and uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and more recent challenges. Drawing from expert opinions across the world to highlight the current challenges and opportunities within this sector, it explores how these ideas can be effectively applied within the workplace.

The book covers a wealth of topical and relevant themes that include defining wellbeing in a modern world, toxic leadership, mental health first aid, the application of positive psychology, and what the ‘new normal’ might look like. Together, these contributions offer a rich look into how Occupational Health and Wellbeing practices have developed, struggled and thrived. The COVID-19 pandemic forced many organisations to adapt fast and became the most significant accelerator in recent times for embracing, enhancing and improving employee health and wellbeing. Understanding this, the book demonstrates how Occupational Health and Wellbeing continues to rise on the corporate agenda as a key contributor to employee satisfaction, engagement and retention, increased financial stability and overall organisational success.

The book is essential reading for senior executives, leaders and professionals involved in occupational health, human resources, health, safety and wellbeing, people support, people development, employee assistance, counselling as well as students within organisational and occupational psychology.

Andrew Kinder is a Chartered Counselling and Chartered Occupational Psychologist and is an Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society (BPS). He is currently Professional Head of Mental Health Services at Optima Health (part of the Marlowe Group).

Rick Hughes is a Wellbeing Consultant, Aberdeen, Scotland, having been Head of Service of the University of Aberdeen Counselling Service and a Lead Advisor for the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP).

Cary L. Cooper is 50th Anniversary Professor of Organizational Psychology and Health at the ALLIANCE Manchester Business School, Manchester, UK, and is a Fellow of the British Psychological Society.