Mental Health At Work: How You Can Support Coworkers
Mental health has often taken a backseat to productivity and performance. In the past, many employers were more concerned about profit than the well-being of their employees. More and more businesses and individuals are now recognizing the critical importance of mental well-being for employees.
Supporting a coworker struggling with mental health issues not only contributes to a more positive workplace culture but, more importantly, can also make a significant difference in someone’s life. The problem is that it may be very difficult to know if someone is struggling with mental health issues. Here are some signs that a coworker may be struggling and ways you can support them.
Understanding Mental Health
The first step in supporting mental health at work is understanding what it entails. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) defines mental health as including our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It affects how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health issues can range from common disorders such as anxiety and depression to more complex conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
Recognizing the Signs
Many people struggling with their mental health mask their problems, especially in a professional environment. While it may be difficult to pin, here are some signs that a coworker might be experiencing mental health challenges:
- Changes in Performance: A noticeable drop in productivity or quality of work, difficulty concentrating, or missing deadlines can indicate someone is struggling.
- Withdrawal: Someone who is usually sociable becoming withdrawn, avoiding social interactions, or spending more time alone may be experiencing mental health issues.
- Physical Symptoms: Frequent headaches, tiredness, or a change in appearance might suggest that a coworker is dealing with stress or other mental health concerns.
- Mood Fluctuations: Look for signs of emotional distress, such as irritability, sensitivity to feedback, or an unusual lack of patience with tasks and people.
- Changes in Communication: A shift towards more negative communication, or a decrease in responsiveness, can also be a red flag.
How to Approach the Situation
Recognizing the signs is the first step. Knowing how to approach a coworker who is struggling is equally important, but may be incredibly difficult and awkward. If you think someone may be struggling with their mental health, here are some suggestions:
- Listen: Sometimes, just knowing someone is there to listen can be a huge relief. Offer your support without forcing the conversation. Let them know you’re available when they’re ready to talk.
- Express Concern Without Assuming: The best way to do this is to use “I” statements to express your concern. For example, “I’ve noticed you’ve been looking really tired lately, is everything okay?” This approach is less likely to make the person feel judged or defensive.
- Encourage Professional Help: Gently suggest the idea of seeking help from a mental health professional. Highlight the benefits of speaking to someone who can provide expert guidance and support.
- Provide Information on Resources: Many workplaces offer resources such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for mental health support. Sharing this information can be a practical way to help.
- Follow Up: Showing consistent concern is key. Check in with them periodically to let them know you still care and are there to support them.
Advocate for Mental Health Resources
If your workplace lacks sufficient mental health resources, consider advocating for them. This could involve suggesting mental health days, organizing workshops on mental health awareness, or requesting the implementation of an EAP.
Summary
Recognizing and supporting a coworker facing mental health struggles can be difficult, but may make a difference in their life. Sometimes just having you there to listen may make a difference. Advocating for additional mental health resources at work can help those that mask their struggles or need additional resources and are afraid to ask.
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Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. It provides general information and is not intended and should not be construed as professional advice. The author is not your attorney, accountant, financial planner or any other professional and no professional-client relationship is created. We do not represent that the information provided is accurate or up-to-date as laws and regulations are always changing. If you have an issue that requires professional help, contact the appropriate professional .Please read the Terms and Conditions for additional information.
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