The Hidden Battle: Mental Health in the Workplace

This blog post is written by Dawn Everton, Senior Recruitment Consultant at William James Recruitment, Premium Sponsors for the upcoming Wellbeing Champions Lunch

Mental health is often an invisible battle, one that many people fight every day while putting on a brave face at work. The reality is, mental health issues don’t discriminate — they can affect anyone, regardless of success or status. Take the story of Jaco Pastorius, a musical genius who faced unimaginable challenges behind the scenes.

Jaco Pastorius, born on 1st December 1951, was a pioneering jazz bassist who revolutionised the music industry and won multiple Grammy Awards. However, while he was winning these accolades and global recognition for his musical talent, he was homeless on the streets of New York, silently battling the effects of bipolar disorder.

Jaco’s story serves as a poignant reminder that mental health can affect anyone, no matter how high their achievements. His case underscores the importance of recognising the signs of mental health struggles, whether it’s in the workplace or in our personal lives. People with mental health conditions often go unnoticed because their external success hides the internal struggles they may be facing.

In the workplace, this can be even more challenging. Employees might feel pressured to perform at their best while dealing with issues like stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges. The stigma surrounding mental health can prevent individuals from seeking help, fearing they’ll be judged or that it will negatively impact their career.

Tips for Supporting Mental Well-being at Work

1. Promote a Culture of Openness: Encourage open conversations about mental health. Creating an environment where employees feel safe to talk about their mental health can prevent issues from escalating.
2. Offer Support Systems: Ensure mental health support services are easily accessible, whether through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or direct access to mental health professionals.
3. Encourage Regular Breaks: Mental health is closely linked to physical well-being. Encourage employees to take regular breaks throughout the day to manage stress and prevent burnout.
4. Stress Management Programs: Implement programs focused on reducing stress, such as mindfulness workshops or stress management training.
5. Provide Flexibility: Flexible working arrangements, such as remote work or flexible hours, can significantly reduce stress and help employees manage mental health challenges more effectively.
6. Create a Supportive Environment: Foster a workplace culture where teamwork, inclusion, and mutual support are the norm. When employees feel supported, their well-being improves.

As mental health first aiders, we have the power to make a difference. By creating a supportive environment, offering empathy, and being proactive in recognising when someone may need help, we can create workplaces where people feel safe to speak about their mental health. This doesn’t just benefit individuals, but it helps the entire organisation to thrive.