Olga Morawczynski PhD Profile

Identifying and Mitigating Psychosocial Risks: Data-Driven Insights into Leadership, Culture, and Workplace Wellbeing

Although psychosocial safety has been a central topic in workplace discussions, the specific risks that compromise employee wellbeing have often been masked. In our study—funded by the Canadian Standards Association and released in 2025—we analyzed over 750,000 employee reviews to pinpoint critical risks such as poor leadership, long hours, toxic culture, among others, that significantly impact mental wellness and psychological safety. Our findings reveal that these factors not only erode individual wellbeing—leading to burnout and disengagement—but also drive adverse business outcomes, including diminished productivity, increased turnover, and reduced ROI.

To highlight the transformative potential of addressing these psychosocial risks, we present detailed case studies of four organizations across various sizes, sectors, and segments that have implemented targeted programs. These case studies demonstrate how strategic initiatives can effectively mitigate these risks, resulting in improved mental health outcomes and tangible business benefits such as enhanced employee retention, increased productivity, and a robust return on investment. Moreover, our research provides key advice on embedding psychological safety into organizational operations and culture, making a compelling business case for companies to invest in sustainable practices that safeguard both employee wellbeing and organizational success.