Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace
As we wrap up May, which was Mental Health Awareness Month, I wanted to reflect on how we show up for our teams—not just as leaders or HR , but as regular people. Whether you're managing a small team or running an entire business, being aware and supporting mental health isn't just a “nice-to-have”—it is key in ensuring your team feels supported.
The truth? People do their best work when they feel heard. You aren’t expected, as an organization or leader, to solve everyone’s problems or worries, but it is important to create a culture where it’s okay not to be okay sometimes.
So how do we actually support mental health at work?
1. Normalize the Conversation
Start talking openly about mental health. You don’t need to share your life story—but modeling things like “Hey, I’m taking a mental health day” or checking in with someone who seems off can go a long way. When leaders talk about it, it gives others permission to do the same.
2. Make Space for Flexibility
Mental health doesn’t always fit neatly into a 9-5 schedule. Can someone adjust their shift or work from home when they’re feeling overwhelmed? Can we stop equating “busy” with “productive”? Small flexibilities can make a big difference.
3. Set Clear Boundaries (and Respect Them)
Encourage time off. Don’t send emails at all hours. Protect breaks. Your team is going to follow along to your habits - if you are e-mailing them on constantly on off days, they are going to feel the pressure to respond, even if you aren’t expecting them to.
4. Know Your Resources
You don’t need to be a therapist, nor should you be. But you do need to know what support is available—an EAP (Employee Assistance Program) is a great place to start.
5. Connection
A quick daily check-in, a coffee chat, or even a shared laugh during a chaotic day—these small moments build trust. When people feel like they have support, they’re more likely to speak up when they’re struggling.
Mental health support at work doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about leading with compassion, creating space for honest conversations, and treating your people like… well, people. And when we take care of our people, they take care of the business.