The Impact of Mental Health : How to Stay Afloat in the Workplace
Having a mental health condition at work can be challenging. If you have such a condition, it’s more than likely even more so. You don’t want to let your colleagues know about your struggles, as that will only add to the stresses of the situation. The last thing you want is for them to pity you and think that there’s something wrong with you.
Fortunately, not everyone will think this way. They’ll instead see that you are just someone who is going through a rough time and needs support from others. But what happens if you aren’t able to express yourself? Or talk about your troubles? How do you communicate them to others, so they are able to help? Keep reading for tips on how to stay afloat during this time.
Credit: Marcel Strauß/ Unsplash
Talk to people you trust
There’s no shame in reaching out to people you trust for support. You may not feel like you can talk to your supervisor about your situation, but you know your boss’s supervisor. If you feel that it’s appropriate to reach out to them and talk about how you’re feeling, then, by all means, do so. Not only will this allow you to get some support, but it will also allow those above you in the company to see that you aren’t the kind of person trying to make excuses or take advantage of the situation.
Additionally, some of your colleagues may have had similar experiences to you or have dealt with similar situations in the past. If so, then they may be able to offer you advice that you don’t have access to. You may have a better idea of how to handle your situation if you can talk to a colleague who has been in a similar situation before.
Join a support group or seek out professionals
If you don’t feel like you can talk to your colleagues or anyone else in your company, then that’s okay. You can always talk to a professional. Some workplaces offer counsellors, or you can join an employee assistance programmes which is for employees struggling with mental health issues. All you need to do is ask your manager or human resources if they can help you find someone who is both licensed and comfortable working with colleagues.
If you prefer to talk to a professional in person, you can do so in a private setting. This way, you can talk to them about your issues without worrying about what your colleagues may think or say. And, if you’re interested in joining a group that is specifically for those who have dealt with mental health issues at work, then you can do so. This can help you open up about your problems and give you a place to vent and get support from others who have previously dealt with similar issues.
Show appreciation for the help you receive
If your supervisor has been helpful in helping you get the appropriate care or if you’ve been able to talk to a professional, then it’s important to show your appreciation for the help you’ve received. If your manager has been supportive, it’s important to let them know that you appreciate them. If you’ve been able to receive help, then it’s important to let others know as well.
This will go a long way towards showing that you aren’t trying to take advantage of the situation. It’ll go a long way towards helping you feel like you’re not the only one dealing with mental health challenges at work. You’re not alone; someone out there understands what you’re going through. This is a great thing.
Help others when you can
When it comes to helping others, you can’t do it if you don’t help yourself first. None of this will matter if you don’t take care of yourself, and that includes eating well, getting enough sleep, and talking to a professional if you feel like you need to.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. And just like your body needs time for rest, so does your mind. If you’re stressed, you’re not going to be able to perform at your best. If you’re not taking care of yourself, then you’re not going to be able to help others to the best of your ability. Help yourself first so that you can help others.
Don’t forget to take care of yourself
Don’t forget to take care of yourself. If you’re not eating right, sleeping enough, or talking to someone professional if you need to, you’re not going to be able to help anyone. The same goes for your mental health. If you’re not taking care of yourself, then you’re not going to be able to perform at your best.
It doesn’t matter how hard you try if you’re not going to be able to help yourself. That’s not to say that you shouldn’t try at all! But if you feel like it’s too much, you’re better off taking a break and giving yourself the space you need. No one can do any good if the person themselves can’t help themselves.
Challenge Expectations
Mental health issues are common and serious, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t have a fulfilling career. Many people don’t realize that having a mental health condition does not mean you can’t or shouldn’t continue working. You just need to work with your manager to find a way to make it work. It can be challenging to balance your mental health with your career, but it can be done. You just need to try new things, ask for help and challenge traditional expectations.
The Impact of Mental Health : How to Stay Afloat in the Workplace
