Fostering well-being in the workplace involves raising awareness and encouraging self-care. Implementing strategies to prevent burnout and support mental health is essential for a positive, inclusive environment.

Creating a Supportive Workplace: Recognizing and Addressing Mental Health

In our fast-paced world, it’s necessary to recognize mental health struggles and support each other in the workplace.

Mental health concerns are becoming more common. One in five Americans deal with a mental health condition in a given year. Stress, burnout, social expectations, and economic struggles are just a few factors that can negatively impact someone’s mental health daily.

By acknowledging these growing concerns, businesses can show support for their employees and create a positive, inclusive workplace environment.

Combatting Workplace Burnout
Stress and burnout can affect mental and emotional well-being more than we may realize. A recent study reported that 79% of people are dealing with work-place stress daily and 38% of people are feeling the signs of burnout. Burnout can be caused by many different factors, whether it be work stress, stress or changes in someone’s personal life, or a combination of both. Some symptoms of burnout include chronic fatigue, headaches, problems sleeping, changes in appetite, irritability, apathy, and more. Combatting burnout involves evaluating your situation and making rest a priority. Using free time to engage in activities you find meaningful or that will help you relax should be prioritized. Making time for self-care, using your coping toolbox, and setting boundaries can also lessen the chance of experiencing burnout. 

In the workplace, employers can decrease the likelihood of employees experiencing burnout through fostering a flexible workplace and offering support when employees express feeling overwhelmed with their workload. Additionally, promoting work-life balance and encouraging employees to unplug when they clock out can decrease risks of burnout.

Coping Tool Box Examples

Mood Boosters
Watch your favorite show, repeat affirmations
Address Physical Needs
Take a nap, eat a healthy snack
Acts of Kindness
Volunteer, compliment a stranger, pay for someone
Self-care and Relaxation
Face masks, meditate, unplug from devices
Get Outside
Take a walk, have a picnic
Hobbies
Crafts, music, read, try a new skill

Raising Awareness
Raising awareness about mental health lets employees know they are supported and cared for. Creating a safe environment where people feel comfortable sharing their struggles is essential. Making mental health resources readily available and educating yourself and others about mental health can make a significant difference. Encourage kindness, compassion, and inclusivity in all interactions. Share your experiences or valuable resources on social media to raise awareness. Additionally, wearing green during Mental Health Awareness Month is a simple yet powerful way to show solidarity and support.

It is important that we continue to raise awareness and recognize people’s mental health struggles outside of Mental Health Awareness Month. Offering periodic check-ins, promoting self-care, and continuing to foster open discussions can be a few simple ways to make mental health a priority in the workplace.