How to talk about mental health in the workplace
Many people believe that mental health is a taboo topic that shouldn't be discussed in the professional setting. However, this silence only perpetuates negative stereotypes and stigma. The reality is that openly talking about mental health and offering support to colleagues is crucial for creating a healthier and more productive work environment.
Why Mental Health Matters in the Workplace
Mental health struggles are more common than you might think. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, one in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness in a given year. These struggles can significantly impact a person's work ethic, behavior, and overall productivity.
For example, someone experiencing anxiety might have difficulty focusing on tasks or meeting deadlines. A coworker battling depression might withdraw from social interactions or exhibit a lack of motivation. By recognizing these signs and starting a conversation, you can offer support and create a more understanding environment.
The O.A.R.S. Framework for Starting a Mental Health Conversation
Victoria Maxwell, an award-winning keynote speaker, offers a simple and effective framework called O.A.R.S. to guide conversations about mental health in the workplace.
1. Observe (Notice Changes in Behavior):
The first step involves observing your coworker's behavior. Look for any significant changes that might indicate a potential mental health issue. This could include:
- Changes in mood or personality (increased irritability, withdrawal)
- Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks
- Changes in sleep or eating patterns
- Increased absenteeism or tardiness
- Frequent physical complaints with no medical explanation
It's important to note that everyone has occasional bad days. Documenting your observations over time can help you distinguish between a temporary setback and a more serious issue.
2. Act & Actively Listen (Open Communication and Empathy):
Once you've observed concerning changes, it's time to approach your coworker. Here are some tips for initiating the conversation, addressing common concerns, and offering conversation starters:
Common Concerns:
- "What if I say the wrong thing?" Focus on expressing genuine care and concern. It's okay if the conversation isn't perfect. The most important thing is to open the door for them to talk.
- "What if they don't want to talk about it?" Respect their boundaries. You can let them know you're there for them if they change their mind.
Conversation Starters:
- "I've noticed you seem down lately. Is everything okay?"
- "You haven't seemed yourself lately. Can we talk?"
- "I'm here for you if you need someone to talk to about anything."
- "Work has been stressful lately. How are you coping?"
Actively Listening:
- Choose the right setting: Find a private space for a confidential conversation.
- Start with empathy: Let your coworker know you care and have noticed a change.
- Ask open-ended questions: Instead of questions with yes/no answers, use phrases like "How are things going?" or "Is there anything I can do to help?"
- Practice active listening: Give your coworker your full attention, make eye contact, and avoid interrupting.
- Validate their feelings: Let them know their feelings are valid and that you're there to listen without judgment.
3. Refer (Providing Resources and Support):
If your coworker discloses that they're struggling with mental health, offer resources and support. This may involve:
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Many companies offer confidential counseling and support services through EAPs. Find out if your workplace has one and share the contact information with your coworker.
- Community Resources: Provide information on mental health hotlines, support groups, or online resources that offer assistance. You can find some helpful resources through the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) at [NAMI National Alliance on Mental Illness nami.org] or the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) at [National Institutes of Health (.gov) nimh.nih.gov].
- Professional Help: Gently encourage your coworker to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor if needed. You can help them research qualified professionals in their area.
4. Support (Continued Encouragement and Follow-Up):
Having one conversation isn't enough. It's important to continue checking in with your coworker and letting them know you're there for them.
Here's how you can offer ongoing support:
- Set small, achievable goals together: This can help them feel a sense of progress and accomplishment. Perhaps you can offer to help them break down a large project into smaller, more manageable tasks.
Bringing the conversation about mental health issues into the workplace is essential to break the stigma. If you or someone you know is struggling, clinicians in our Counseling & Wellness Centers can help.