Promoting Mental Health Awareness in June: 10 Essential Workplace Tips and Self-Check Strategies

June is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to focus on understanding and supporting mental well-being. Mental health affects every aspect of life, including how we perform and feel at work. Creating a supportive workplace environment where employees feel safe discussing mental health is crucial. This blog shares 10 practical tips on what you can ask at work to request mental health support, ways to celebrate mental health wellness with coworkers, and strategies for self-checking your mental health to prevent burnout or toxicity.

Creating a calm and supportive workspace for mental health

What You Can Ask at Work to Request Mental Health Support

Asking for mental health support at work can feel intimidating, but knowing what is appropriate to ask helps create a clear and respectful conversation. Here are 10 questions or requests you can make to support your mental health needs:

1. Can we discuss flexible work hours?

   Adjusting your schedule can help manage stress or therapy appointments.

   
   

2. Is it possible to work from home occasionally?

   Remote work can reduce anxiety triggers and improve focus.

   
   

3. Can I have a private space to take breaks when feeling overwhelmed?

   A quiet area helps you reset and maintain productivity.

   
   

4. Are there any employee assistance programs (EAP) available?

   Many workplaces offer confidential counseling or resources.

   
   

5. Can I have a temporary workload adjustment?

   Reducing tasks during difficult periods can prevent burnout.

   
   

6. Is there training for managers on mental health awareness?

   Supportive leadership improves workplace culture.

   
   

7. Can we set up regular check-ins to discuss my workload and well-being?

   Ongoing communication helps catch issues early.

   
   

8. Are mental health days part of the leave policy?

   Knowing your rights encourages taking time when needed.

   
   

9. Can I access mental health resources or workshops through work?

   Educational sessions promote awareness and coping skills.

   
   

10. Is it possible to have a mental health advocate or peer support group?

Connecting with others reduces stigma and isolation.

These questions show you are proactive about your well-being while respecting workplace policies. Remember, mental health is as important as physical health, and many employers want to support you.

Top 5 Things to Do with Coworkers to Celebrate Mental Health Wellness Together

Coworkers enjoying lunch picnic at the beach

Building a culture of mental health awareness benefits everyone. Here are five activities you can organize or suggest with coworkers to promote wellness:

• Group Mindfulness or Meditation Sessions

Short guided sessions during breaks help reduce stress and improve focus.

• Wellness Walks or Outdoor Breaks

Taking walks together outside encourages movement and fresh air, boosting mood.

• Mental Health Lunch and Learn

Invite a speaker or watch a documentary to spark open conversations.

• Create a Gratitude Wall

Encourage coworkers to post notes about things they appreciate, fostering positivity.

• Organize a Mental Health Challenge

Set daily goals like drinking water, taking breaks, or practicing deep breathing, and share progress.

These activities create connection and normalize talking about mental health. They also show that caring for mental wellness is a shared responsibility.

How to Do a Self-Check on Your Mental Health at Work

Woman taking a moment to check her glucose levels

Regularly assessing your mental health helps catch signs of burnout or toxic work environments early. Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I feel exhausted even after rest?

Persistent fatigue can signal burnout.

• Am I losing interest or motivation in my tasks?

A drop in enthusiasm may indicate stress or dissatisfaction.

• Do I feel anxious or irritable more than usual?

Heightened emotions can be a response to workplace pressure.

If you answer yes to any, consider using accessible tools to evaluate your mental health further:

1. MindShift CBT App

   Uses cognitive behavioral therapy techniques to manage anxiety and stress.

   
   

2. Moodfit

   Tracks mood, sleep, and exercise to identify patterns affecting mental health.

   
   

3. WHO-5 Well-Being Index

   A simple questionnaire to assess overall well-being, available online for free.

   
   

Using these tools can guide you in seeking professional help or making lifestyle changes. Remember, mental health check-ins are as important as physical health screenings.

Want to learn more about what else can you do to cherish and care for your mental health this June?

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