Essential Guide: Understanding Mental Health at Work

“You, yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.” — Buddha

Mental health is a crucial part of our overall well-being, yet it remains under-prioritized and often overlooked or stigmatized in many environments, especially at work. With World Mental Health Day being recognized on October 10, 2024, we have an opportunity to reflect on the significance of mental health and how we can cultivate environments that truly support the well-being of employees. By understanding mental health challenges and making a conscious effort to address them at work, businesses can create more productive and supportive cultures. But it shouldn’t stop there, not in one day out of three hundred and sixty five days. This is an every day problem.

The Impact of Mental Health on Overall Health and Work Performance

Mental health challenges don’t just affect emotions—they take a toll on our physical health as well. Conditions like stress, anxiety, and depression often show up as fatigue, insomnia, and even a weakened immune system. The American Psychological Association links chronic stress to serious health conditions like heart disease and digestive disorders.

I know this firsthand. I’ve been there—feeling exhausted and worn down, and at times, made to believe it was a “me” problem. I’ve worked for both supportive bosses and those who dismissed the importance of mental health. To the bad bosses: shame on you. To the good ones: God bless you for recognizing the importance of caring for your team.

In the workplace, mental health issues directly impact productivity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that depression alone accounts for 200 million lost workdays per year in the U.S., costing employers between $17 billion and $44 billion annually due to absenteeism and reduced productivity. This makes it clear: prioritizing mental health isn’t just good for employee well-being—it’s essential for business sustainability.

We need more good bosses who understand that supporting mental health isn’t optional—it’s key to building strong, resilient teams that can thrive.

Common Issues Mental Health at Work

Mental health challenges are widespread across American workplaces. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that approximately 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year. In the professional setting, these issues often manifest in the following ways:

Anxiety: Marked by excessive worry, anxiety disorders can interfere with concentration, productivity, and decision-making.
Depression: A common mental health disorder that leads to persistent feelings of sadness and disinterest in work, resulting in disengagement.
Burnout: A severe result of chronic workplace stress, burnout can cause emotional exhaustion, detachment, and a reduced sense of accomplishment.

These conditions often lead to absenteeism or presenteeism (when employees are present but not fully functioning), contributing to significant losses in productivity.

Statistics reveal that approximately 264 million people globally suffer from depression, with many of these individuals also experiencing anxiety. These conditions are major contributors to lost productivity, with an estimated 12 billion working days lost annually due to mental health disorders.

Maintaining Mental Health at Work

Taking intentional steps to protect your mental health is vital, especially in high-stress environments. Here are two effective strategies:

Set Boundaries: Establishing a clear separation between work and personal life can prevent burnout. The American Institute of Stress recommends setting work-hour limits and turning off work-related notifications outside of those hours. Studies show that employees who set healthy boundaries report lower levels of stress and higher levels of job satisfaction source. If your boundaries are crossed, then take steps to get yourself into a better environment. Don’t talk yourself out of it – you can do this!
Practice Mindfulness: Research from Harvard Medical School has found that practicing mindfulness can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression while improving focus source. Even brief mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing or short meditations during breaks, can help employees manage work-related stress.

Supporting Colleagues Struggling with Mental Health

If a colleague or employee is struggling with their mental health, showing support can make a world of difference. Here are two examples of how you can encourage someone who may be facing mental health challenges:

Be Compassionate and Listen: One of the most helpful things you can do is offer a listening ear without judgment. Often, people feel isolated when they struggle with mental health, and knowing that someone is genuinely listening can alleviate that sense of loneliness. Ask how they are doing, and if they’re comfortable sharing, give them space to talk about what they’re going through.
Encourage Professional Help: If appropriate, gently encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional. Whether it’s a counselor, therapist, or support group, professional resources can provide the guidance and coping mechanisms needed to manage mental health more effectively. Many workplaces now offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which provide free, confidential services for mental health support.

Breaking the Stigma

Ultimately, raising mental health awareness—both at work and beyond—is about breaking down barriers and fostering an environment where people feel safe, supported, and empowered to prioritize their well-being. Mental health should not be an afterthought, but rather a key part of our overall health. By acknowledging its importance, encouraging open conversations, and extending a hand of support, we can create spaces where everyone can truly thrive.

As we mark World Mental Health Day this October, let’s commit to something greater: taking care of ourselves and each other, not just once a year but every single day. Mental health is not separate from our overall health—it is our health. Together, we can build a more compassionate, understanding world where everyone feels heard, valued, and loved.

One of my deepest passions is to spread light, bringing hope to those who need it most. Whether in public or in private, I’ve dedicated my life to helping people through their darkest moments. If you ever feel alone, know that you are not. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me or another Mental Wellness Coach—we are here for you. You are loved, you are important, and you matter.

As the great Glenn Close once said, “What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation.” This is a call to each of us to be open, to be vulnerable, and to seek support when we need it most.

I’ve personally experienced how our healthcare system can fall short. My doctor didn’t notify me when my Zoloft prescription was about to run out. There was no guidance, no check-in, and no coaching on how to wean off if I didn’t want to continue. It was isolating and, honestly, terrifying. If it hadn’t been for Happy Juice and Mood+, I don’t know where I’d be today. This is just one example of how our medical institutions are failing us, but it’s also a reminder that we must take back control of our health and mental well-being.

If you’re ready to take that step, visit mandiviena.com/wellness-solutions to explore the options that changed my life. From wellness coaching to Happy Juice and Mood+, there are solutions that can help you reclaim your mental well-being. Don’t wait for someone else to call—take control today.