context: That Party members are under increasing pressure in an era of massive restructuring and reform is not a surprise. The report below appears to be one of the most comprehensive assessments released to a public audience.
Nanjing Cadre Assessment Service Centre recently announced results from its research on cadres' psychological quality and factors affecting grassroots cadres' mental health, putting forward support measures. Because grassroots cadres are connected with thousands of families, the authors noted, their capabilities and mental health are closely related to citizens’ vital interests.
Compared with the national average level, according to the study, Nanjing grassroots cadres have
- stronger sense of responsibility
- good psychological endurance
- necessary resilience to solve problems
- suitable self-control and adaptability
At the same time, researchers noted, problems are also apparent
- psychological harmony is lower than the national average
- work stress is higher than the national average
- career development pressure is higher
- strong psychological discomfort
Mental health problems of grassroots cadres are the result of multiple psychological influences
- high pressure of accountability and heavy assessment tasks result in psychological burdens
- narrow promotion channels and limited space for career development cause mood imbalances, low sense of professional honour and lack of trust, affecting enthusiasm and self-confidence
- fear of inadequate abilities aggravate psychological pressure, distress
Differentiated mental health services should be implemented for different groups. For example, female cadres lacking self-confidence and enthusiasm should be provided more experience in key posts. Male cadres need to develop optimism and trust, and better coordinate work and family. For young cadres with career development pressures, beliefs should be strengthened while exposure to different experiences and pressures help them mature. Middle-aged cadres have rich experience, but family and interpersonal pressures.
Cadre selection and cultivation should also be sensitive to individual personalities and qualities. Daily cadre management should involve intervention to reduce anxiety, depression, fear and other negative emotions. Strengthening psychological counselling and physical exercise are proven ways of relieving pressure, the study noted.