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With this month being Mental Health Awareness month, it’s important for us to talk about the challenges that many people face. For some, mental health has been a long time struggle while for others, this may be a new battle. While many talk about navigating it on a personal front, it’s not often a topic of discussion in the workplace, but it should be. Here’s a few ways to help you keep your mental space in good shape while maintaining your daily work life.
· Allow yourself to be vulnerable. You don’t have to pour out your guts or anything but when someone reaches out to check on you or asks how you’re doing, respond and be honest with them. It feels good to know that someone cares so when they show it, accept it with open arms.
· Step away when you need to take a break. If during your workday you find that you need to clear your head for a few minutes, take a short walk outside to get some air and debrief. Maybe grab a snack or if you have the ability to, sit in your car and do some breathing exercises to help you reset. Listen to the needs of your body.
· Prioritize self-care. There is no prize for working yourself to death. It is ok to use your paid time off or take some vacation days. And on that time off, actually, be off. Do not answer work calls or emails. Unplug completely and give your mind a chance to rest. If therapy is something you are interested in, give it a try. Do whatever you feel you need to do to keep your mind in positive spaces.
· Be vocal about your needs. As things in our lives change, the needs we have also change. Share those changes with your leadership team and let them know what adjustments you might need to make to be able to accommodate whatever those changes may be. You would be surprised how flexible management can be sometimes. You don’t get what you don’t ask for.
· Take it one day at a time. That’s really all you can do. Give yourself permission to feel and process as necessary. When you have those moments at work, as stated above, find a quiet space to let it out or talk to a trusted coworker or supervisor. You don’t have to walk through everything alone and the comradery of the office can provide the support you need when you’re bold enough to ask.