The role of carer-friendly workplace policies (CFWP) and social support in relation to the mental health of carer-employees (CEs)

Abstract

Carer-friendly workplace policies (CFWPs) have a significant moderate effect on the association between work interferences and caregiver-employees’ (CEs) mental health. CEs who worked in a workplace that promote CFWPs without negative impacts on their career were less likely to experience appetite loss, trouble sleeping, mental health symptoms, and feelings of anxiety when turning down a job offer or promotion. Further, social support was associated with an increased chance of mental health symptoms, apart from help from the community. The odds of experiencing feelings of isolation decreased by 35% when CEs received help from the community. The odds of feelings depressed decreased by 35% when CEs had a flexible working schedule. Due to caregiving responsibilities, 44.7% of CEs reported feelings of anxiousness, and 42.4% reported feeling tired.