🗣️ Advocating for Your Mental Health in the Workplace
Your mental health matters.
So why not advocate for it?
Every individual has the potential to create ripples of change that can resonate throughout a community or organization, especially when it comes to mental health.
The Power of Mental Health Advocacy
In the context of mental health advocacy at work, this means standing up and asking for your own mental health needs and rights, and in doing so, shifting the dynamics and culture of the entire workplace.
Ok, so how do I advocate for my mental health?
When you choose to advocate for your mental health at work, you're not just improving conditions for yourself; you're also raising awareness about mental health issues on a broader scale. This can inspire others to follow suit and advocate for their own needs, fostering a collective change. Over time, such advocacy can lead to shifts in workplace culture, resulting in greater openness about mental health, enhanced support systems, and reduced stigma.
5 Ways to start advocating for your mental health:
1) Know the stats
Rates of extreme stress and burnout are at record levels. According to research from the Future Forum, burnout from workplace stress is at an all-time high of 42% and studies show that every year, up to 200 million workdays in the US are lost due to mental health challenges. Untreated mental health conditions can cost your organization millions of dollars per year which is a stat your boss may respond to.
2) Share your own story
If you've experienced challenges related to mental health, such as depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders, or have navigated difficult life transitions, your personal story can be a powerful advocacy tool. You have the opportunity to open up discussions and destigmatize mental health challenges, potentially encouraging others to seek help. Transforming workplace culture to support mental health benefits everyone—employees, as well as the company's productivity and longevity.
3) Advocate for specific policy or cultural changes
Individual change is only as effective as the systems and structures in which it happens. There are changes to culture and policy that you as an individual can advocate for, including:
Mental health days
Better healthcare/medical benefits that include mental health care coverage
Mental health/counseling support and resources like EAPs and/or telehealth access
Mandatory manager training in mental health first aid
Transform workplace mental health with flexibility in working schedules and environments
These changes may not be available to everyone but start by asking what kind of change could you impact within your org.
4) Start an ERG or support community
Community and peer support can be transformative when it comes to mental health. In your workplace, inquire with your boss or HR about the existence of employee resource groups (ERGs) focused on mental health. If such groups are not available, consider initiating one. You might be surprised at the number of colleagues seeking a supportive community to address mental health challenges together.
5) Host mental health workshops and events
Take the initiative to organize events within your organization that promote mental health awareness and education to help end the stigma around mental health. This could include inviting speakers or hosting workshops on navigating mental health at work. Create spaces for employees and leaders to share their mental health stories and experiences.
Stay informed about mental health advocacy
What else is happening in the world of mental health
Deepak Chopra sells his wellness empire to the Healing Company
With an increased focus on loneliness as a public health crisis, some are wondering how AI will impact the growing issue
Join us in the movement to change minds about mental health
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Bring mental health training to your org
That’s all for now.
Until next time, please share with your friends and fam! And reach out below to let us know what you’d like to hear about this month.
Meg + the Here fam