Mental health is just as important as physical health. When you are mentally well, you think clearly, manage stress, and perform better on the job. Everyone struggles sometimes, and it is okay to talk about it.
Why Does Mental Health Matter at Work?
It is tied directly to focus, safety, and relationships.
- About 1 in 5 adults experience a mental health condition each year
- Untreated stress, anxiety, or depression can affect focus, safety, and relationships on the job
- Stigma can prevent people from seeking help, and starting conversations helps change that
What Are Common Signs of Mental Health Struggles?
The signs often show up gradually.
- Increased irritability or mood swings
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Withdrawing from coworkers
- Fatigue, insomnia, or changes in appetite
- Talking about feeling hopeless or overwhelmed
What Can You Do?
Small actions make a real difference.
- Check in with yourself and others by asking how someone is really doing and listening without judgment
- Know the resources, including the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
- Practice self-care by taking breaks, managing workload, staying active, getting enough rest, and limiting alcohol and avoiding drugs as coping tools
- Foster a supportive culture by speaking up against harmful jokes or stigma and supporting coworkers, and remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness
