Mental health — an important topic we all have seen gain more awareness, especially after the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. From online spaces to local communities, it is slowly becoming less taboo to talk about openly and that’s awesome!
In line with this year’s World Mental Health Day theme of ‘It is Time to Prioritise Mental Health in the Workplace’, we’ve pieced together simple and effective steps to take care of your mental health and ways employers can create an inclusive environment for employees struggling with their mental health.
Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace
As working individuals, we spend the majority of our waking hours at work. Therefore, it’s important to consider how our jobs can affect our mental health. Work can be fulfilling and bring meaning to our lives—a shout-out to those climbing the corporate ladder and thriving. It also provides financial stability and opportunities for meaningful connections.
However, work can also be a source of stress. While some stress is good, excessive stress can take a toll on our mental health, potentially leading to burnout, anxiety, or even depression.
Ways to Protect Your Mental Health
Here are 4 ways you can nurture your mental wellness in the workplace:
Self-care is more than just treating yourself
Taking care of your physical health will do wonders for your mental health. By getting 30 minutes of exercise daily, you reap the benefit of those uplifting endorphins. Choose nutritious, balanced meals filled with fresh veggies, fruits and plenty of water to fuel your body and mind. And remember, a good night’s sleep supports your immune system and keeps you feeling your best.
Find ways to manage your stress
Everyone has different ways to de-stress at the end of the day. If you haven’t found a method that works for you yet, don't sweat it! Consider these methods:
1) Journaling
Journaling is a great way to express yourself. While it’s not a substitute for professional help, it can help you understand your feelings and navigate through unhelpful thoughts without breaking the bank.
2) Practice relaxation techniques
While some may laugh at the thought of meditating, even a few minutes of focused breathing can work wonders and prevent a stress episode. Body scan meditation or progressive muscle relaxation exercises are good tools to employ when you feel stress piling up.
3) Find small things that help you relax
Whether it’s diving into a novel, taking a walk, zoning out with a good TV series or even folding clothes, if something helps you unwind and calm those nerves, add those activities to your coping toolbox.
Build a support system
While we may not get to choose who we work with, working in a supportive environment and getting along with our managers can positively impact our mental health. Moreover, finding a small, trusted group of colleagues to share work-related feelings makes daily challenges more manageable.
A strong support network helps us navigate workplace hurdles and enriches our overall well-being.
Don’t be afraid to seek help
If you're experiencing mood changes that disrupt your daily life, it's a sign for you to seek support. Reaching out to friends, family, or a therapist can make a significant difference.
If you find that your mental health is affecting your work performance, consider having an open conversation with your boss to foster understanding and support. If you need help approaching this, consult HR first; they can guide you through the process and help you find the best path forward.