Just as we place importance on physical health, we have come a long way in recognizing the importance of mental health as well. Nowadays, people are addressing their mental health concerns by seeking help from professionals like psychiatrists and psychologists. When diagnosed with a mental health condition, individuals are encouraged to take medication, rest, and recover with the support of family and friends. Seeking help for mental health is no longer a taboo. Anxiety, stress, and depression are real challenges—but so are their solutions.
Since we spend a third of our day at work, it’s vital to have a supportive environment there as well. Here are some practices to help maintain mental well-being in the workplace.
Communication
Open communication is key. If you feel comfortable, share your concerns with your supervisor or manager—especially if you are undergoing treatment or need additional accommodations. By helping them understand the seriousness of your condition, you can work together to develop a plan such as incorporating rest days, adjusting schedules for appointments, setting realistic deadlines, and more.
Staying Busy
As the saying goes, “An idle mind is the devil’s workshop.” Staying engaged at work is essential for mental well-being. You can:
- Schedule regular one-on-one meetings with your supervisor.
- Participate in Employment Resource Group (ERG) activities.
- Network with teammates to learn about their strategies and approaches.
- Join town halls, global meetings, recreational events, or celebrations in the office.
- These activities not only keep you busy but also foster a sense of community.
Journaling
Journaling can be a powerful tool for tracking your mood and reflecting on current habits. Even small changes such as tweaking your diet, workout, reading, or journaling routine, can make a big difference in your mood every day. By tracking these changes, you can more easily see the correlation to your emotions.
Self-Help
Be kind to yourself. On tough days when you feel like staying in bed, gather all your strength, get dressed, and show up at work. Sometimes, the simple act of being around people—seeing their smiles and feeling their positive energy—can lift your spirits and reignite hope.
LiveWell Wellness Challenge
At Perficiemt, we are fortunate to have a supportive work environment with friendly and empathetic mentors and team members. rograms like Buddy Connect ensure smooth onboarding for new hires, and initiatives like the LiveWell Wellness Challenge in October encourage us to focus on daily activities such as mindfulness, reading, solving puzzles, prayer, and spending time outdoors. These small steps collectively contribute to our overall mental well-being.
In Conclusion
Prioritizing mental health is just as important as physical health, and workplaces play a crucial role in fostering overall well-being. By maintaining open communication, staying engaged, adopting reflective practices like journaling, and practicing self-care, employees can navigate challenges more effectively. Together, we can continue to break the stigma around mental health and build a culture of compassion, resilience, and growth.