Mental Health Tips: Supporting Your Mental Health In and Out of the Workplace

Mental Health Tips:

Supporting Your Mental Health In and Out of the Workplace

When it comes to taking care of your health, your mental health is just as important as your physical health, especially when it comes to the workplace. Whether you work in an office, from home, or somewhere onsite, your mental well-being plays a huge role in how you feel and perform at work.

But how do you know if your mental well-being needs a little support? Sometimes, we get so caught up in work and daily responsibilities that we don’t notice when our mental health needs some attention. Here are some signs that it might be time to check in with how you’re feeling;

You always feel tired, even after you rest. This may be a sign of burnout.

You feel irritable or on-edge, anxious, or down

You’re having trouble focusing

You’re avoiding people or responsibilities

You’re experiencing physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, muscle tension, or changes in sleep and appetite

There are things you can do both within and outside of the workplace that can help support your mental health. Within the workplace it’s important to;

Set Clear Work-Life Boundaries
Create a routine that separates work from personal time. This is especially important if you work from home.
Take Real Breaks
Don’t eat lunch at your desk. Make sure you step away from your work during your break and rest.
Prioritize and Plan Tasks
Sometimes making a to-do list to stay organized can help you feel more in control and on top of your workload. Tackle the most important work during your peak energy times.
Speak Up if You’re Overloaded
If work gets too heavy, talk to your manager. It’s better to speak up early than to wait until you’re burned out.
Stay Connected with Others
Say hi to coworkers or eat lunch with someone. Feeling connected helps boost your mood.
Use Your Time Off
Rest is not a reward, it’s a need. Take time off from time to time. Even if it’s just a day or two to relax or have a “staycation”.

There are also things you can do to support your overall mental health outside of the workplace. These things include;

Take care of your physical health
Just as mental health can affect your physical health, your physical health can also affect your mental health. These habits are good ones to have to support your physical health.
- Exercise – Make sure to get some form of exercise regularly, whether it’s going for a walk, doing yoga, or dancing. Exercise can help release stress.
- Get enough sleep – Most people find 7 – 9 hours of sleep at night is needed to wake up feeling rested.
- Eat well and stay hydrated – Your brain needs fuel too. Drink water and eat foods that make you feel good.
Spend Time in Nature
Sitting by a tree, going for a nature walk, or just being outdoors for 10 minutes can be calming and grounding.
Journal
Writing down your thoughts regularly can help you process your emotions and give you space to think about your day.
Have a Designated Calm Space
Even if it’s just a corner of your room with a cozy blanket and candle, having a designated space to relax can help calm you when things get stressful.
Try something new
Sometimes it’s not that we are overwhelmed or stressed that is causing a dip in our mental health. Getting bored or feeling stuck in a routine can significantly affect how we feel mentally. So, mix it up! Try a new hobby, visit a restaurant you’ve never been to, or try some new experiences to refresh your mind.

And most importantly, remember to be kind to yourself and seek help if you need it. Taking care of your mental health isn’t selfish, it helps you show up as your best self at work and in life. Give yourself grace and take things one step at a time.