Millions of Americans deal with mental health issues. There can be a variety of reasons as to why people struggle with mental illness, but oftentimes the stress of work can make things worse. That’s why it’s important to support and understand the importance of mental health, no matter what your role in the workplace is.

The stigma:

The stigma associated with mental health issues can be even more challenging to deal with in the workplace. Many people carry subconscious biases toward mental illness that can lead to workplace issues such as discrimination.
Additionally, those suffering from mental health issues in the workplace might choose to keep their problems to themselves rather than being open about things out of fear of being labeled weak or incompetent to perform their job duties. This can stand in the way of individuals seeking help. Mental illness is just as serious as any other medical condition and should be treated as such.

It is COMMON!

When you consider the statistics regarding mental health, such as that 1 in 5 people experience it, everyone likely knows someone suffering from a mental health-related illness. Because of this, it’s a great idea to educate staff on the warning signs and symptoms of mental health issues. By being open about the topic, and informing people about how common it is, employees will see that the company values mental health, and those suffering will feel a sense of support and be more likely to come forward about their struggles.

How to Support Mental Health at Work:

Besides being open about the importance of mental health, implementing certain practices or programs in the workplace can be a great way to show support. Offering a “lunch-and-learn” program on the facts about mental health could be an innovative way to do this! Or, establish an employee assistance program that provides counseling or mental health support to employees.
Simple things such as creating an open-door policy for employees to share when they’re going through a difficult time at home or are feeling overwhelmed can also make a world of difference for those struggling. Additionally, helping employees focus on work-life balance and providing tips on how to handle a mental illness in the employee handbook are great ideas to show support!

Takeaway:

Everyone struggles in life and goes through tough times. Anyone could encounter a mental health issue at any time, and that is why it’s so important to be open and supportive about these types of things. When a workplace values mental health and makes it known, employees will feel both safer and happier in the long run!