October is Mental Health Awareness Month, a great opportunity to focus on how we can support each other in the workplace.
People often hear the advice to reach out when feeling distressed, but this can be incredibly challenging, especially if you’re worried about how you’ll be perceived by coworkers and managers.
However, there are actions we can all take to create a safer, more supportive work environment.
Check in.
Check in with your coworkers. When someone you work with is struggling, it’s great to ask how they’ve been or offer support but be sure to respect their boundaries. They might not feel comfortable opening up and that’s okay, but letting them know that you are available for a chat can make a big difference.
Be a good listener.
Listening may sound simple, but truly hearing someone can take practice. When a colleague is in distress, communication might be challenging. Practise active listening, pay attention to non-verbal cues, and listen to understand and validate, not react.
Speak up against the stigma.
Avoid and stigmatising language in the workplace. Terms like “crazy” and “mad” can negatively impact those struggling with mental health. If you hear others using language that may be harmful, try politely requesting that they choose different words to express themselves.
Share if you feel comfortable.
Normalise sharing your own experiences of feeling down, tired, or stressed. The more openly we communicate, the safer it becomes for everyone to share their struggles.
Remember, every effort counts. By checking in, listening, and challenging stigma, you can make your workplace a beacon of support and compassion.
This October, let’s use Mental Health Awareness Month as a springboard to foster a culture of care and understanding all year round.