Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace: Insights and Resources

Being at work when you’re not in the right mindset can be challenging. Mental health issues like depression, burnout, or anxiety can affect your performance. But taking time off for mental health is often stigmatized unlike physical health issues. Many people, as noted by Jody Adewale, a psychologist and medical advisor for Made of Millions, feel pressured to push through work without addressing mental health.

“It’s not a character flaw or a sign of weakness,” Adewale emphasizes. “Everybody will experience it at some point in their life.”

Understanding Signs of Mental Health Decline

Look for these signs if you or others may be struggling with mental health:

• Personality changes
• Agitation or unusual anger
• Withdrawal from social interactions
• Poor hygiene or substance abuse
• Feelings of hopelessness

These signs, identified by Give an Hour, can indicate it’s time to check in with yourself or others, suggests Hassel Aviles of Not 9 to 5.

Engaging in Conversations to Find Help

If you recognize these signs, talk to a trusted colleague or supervisor. They can guide you to resources or help you think through your situation. Human resources might also assist, but they prioritize the company’s interests, warns Adewale.

If facing retaliation due to mental health, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission can be contacted. Consider using the DEAR method for discussions:

• D: Describe the situation with facts.
• E: Express your feelings or impacts.
• A: Assert your needs.
• R: Reinforce how it benefits all.

Remember, work conversations on mental health aren’t therapy sessions. Utilize available employee assistance programs (EAP) for free therapy sessions.

Importance of Taking a Break

If therapy isn’t sufficient, consider taking time off. Short-term disability leave for mental health issues is a viable option. Vermont journalist Siobhan Neela-Stock’s experience highlighted that discussing mental health leave is becoming more common, with her break generating supportive responses.

Creating a Psychologically Safe Workplace

A healthy mental workspace starts with psychological safety, a concept by researcher Amy Edmondson. This promotes an environment where employees can express themselves without fear of losing opportunities, Aviles adds.

Employers must enable openness and be receptive to feedback. Mistakes should be learning opportunities, encouraging growth rather than criticism.

Available Resources

• The CDC offers resources for workplace mental health.
• Mental health first aid training is available for better workplace support.
• Made of Millions provides extensive resources and training globally.
• ShiftCollab offers insights on implementing workplace psychological safety.
• The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission explains workplace protections for mental health.

For more tips, you can reach out to Life Kit via voicemail at 202-216-9823 or email [email protected]. Consider subscribing to the newsletter for additional insights.