In this final instalment of our Mental Health Matters series, we’ll be talking about how you can open up or speak up about your mental wellbeing at work.
Whilst it is understandable that showing signs of struggle in the workplace can be construed as a weakness, it can also be one of the greatest sources of strength.
Why?
Being vocal about your mental health challenges can help you acknowledge these challenges – and once acknowledged – steps can be taken to overcome these challenges.
But how can you acknowledge and talk about mental health at work? Here are a few quick tips:
- Let your manager know that you have something important to talk about. By doing so, she/he will feel more prepared to have a serious conversation.
- Before meeting your manager, prepare examples of what has been negatively impacting your mental health, as well as how your mental health has been affected.
- If possible, also share any resources or information about your mental health you may have found through your own research.
- Provide suggestions about how you can be supported. Do you need some time off? Can someone else share your workload? Discuss these potential solutions with your manager so that concrete action can be taken.
Additionally, remember that there is no right or wrong time to speak up about your mental health – mental health challenges can be faced by anyone at any time. What will make a difference is opening up or speaking out about it. By doing so, you can then take the necessary steps that benefit your mental health.
Last but not least, employers should strive to create a supportive and empathetic work environment where employees can freely speak up about their mental health without fear of judgment or repercussions. By fostering open communication and providing resources for mental health support, employers can prioritise the well-being of their employees and cultivate a workplace that values mental health.
This article was adapted from the original article published by Golden Equator People Experience Management Team