Mental Health and Work Life

What is the connection between mental health and work life? Most individuals spend 8-12 hours of their day working. This would lead us to believe that work environments, including the people you work with/for, and stress level would impact your mental health. 

• Burnout

  • Chronic stress and emotional exhaustion from the job can lead to burnout and hinder your professional growth

  • Ways to combat it and work on your professional growth:

    • Promoting work-life balance- can alleviate chronic stress

    • Integrating mental health in the workspace

• Supportive Work Environment/Culture

  • A workplace where employees feel heard, valued, and supported leads to greater job satisfaction and emotional resilience.

  • A positive workplace culture that values collaboration, inclusion, and respect creates a sense of community and belonging.

  • Normalize the conversation on mental health- creating a safe space for employees or yourself and reducing the stigma around mental health in the workplace

• Open space allows you to connect with co-workers and be there for them emotionally as they can be there for you as continuous learning and mental health

  • When mental health is supported, you are more likely to focus better, be more attentive

  • This can help in completing seminars, certifications, and education- allowing yourself to grow professionally and mentally

• Opportunities for Growth

  • Increased motivation and goal achievement

  • Positive mental health provides the clarity and energy that is needed to set and pursue the goals we set

  • Professional development opportunities, such as training, mentorship, and promotions, increase self-confidence and job satisfaction.

It would be wrong for anyone to believe that their workplace will be the perfect environment, so it is important to have a bank of coping strategies and skills that aid success in a workplace environment and mitigate stressful situations.

• Mindfulness techniques - This includes but is not limited to deep breathing and meditation

• Time management

• Physical activity - This can be before, after, or during a break at work. Physical activity can release stress and tension your body is holding

• Support system- At work and outside of work

• Set boundaries - Know what your nonnegotiables are and ensure you vocalize and 

• 90/20 Rule - Work for 90 minutes, then take a break for 20 minutes for a mental recharge

• Take walks - Take a moment to walk a lap of your floor or during your lunch

• Stay hydrated and eat nutritious foods - helps sustain physical and mental energy

• Use your personal and vacation time