Mental health in the Post-Pandemic-World

In May 2021, I wrote an article about mental health in the workplace.

Given that May is Mental Health Awareness Month in the United States, I wanted to share the article again and provide some updates and reflections on where we stand in the "post-pandemic-world."

To begin, let's define mental health simply. Mental health is a measure of our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. When our mental health is out of balance, it can impact our ability to thrive in these areas, influencing how we think, feel, and act.

Even before the pandemic, mental health struggles were pretty common, with about one in four Americans dealing with mental health issues each year. However, historically, there has been a social stigma surrounding discussing and addressing mental health.

The pandemic has led to a breakdown of this stigma. As a result, we're having more open discussions on mental health in both our personal and professional lives, making it easier for individuals to ask for help or seek out resources to aid them in their mental health journey.

In my previous article, I discussed some core areas related to mental health in the workplace, including what employers, managers, and employees can do to support mental health.

As an employer, reevaluating employee benefits and creating a culture supporting mental health are crucial steps. This can include offering mental health days or counseling services, promoting work-life balance, and providing professional development and growth opportunities.

As a manager, investing time in getting to know your team members and rethinking your approach to one-on-one meetings can help foster open communication and trust. In addition, being a positive example for your team by prioritizing your own mental health can also set a great example.

For employees, being honest about their mental health struggles with their manager can be a challenging but important step. Your manager can work with you to provide support and connect you with any necessary resources. In addition, utilizing mental health benefits offered by your employer, such as gym memberships or counseling services, can also be beneficial in managing your mental health.

While the advice I provided in my previous article is still valid, there is much more to explore regarding mental health in the workplace. The pandemic has brought to light new challenges and opportunities for employers, managers, and employees to prioritize mental health and well-being. As we navigate this new world, we must continue having open and honest conversations and prioritize mental health as a critical component of overall health and wellness.

I've noticed an increase in people speaking up about mental health on social media lately, and I think it's fantastic! The more we openly discuss mental health, the more we break down the stigma surrounding it.

I grew up in a society where mental health was not discussed, and seeking therapy was seen as a weakness. It wasn't until later in my adult life that I sought therapy and realized the immense benefit it could provide. Being able to talk through my problems and develop coping strategies has been life-changing for me.

I’ve been using the Headspace app for many years now, and it's been a game-changer for my mental health routine. Knowing I have a resource I can turn to whenever I need it has been incredibly empowering.

Let's take a step back and discuss my top tips for maintaining mental health in the post-pandemic-world. It's important to consider these tips based on the type of worker you are, whether you work fully remote, full-time in an office, or fall into a hybrid category with different obligations and choices.

For those working fully remote, please set aside time for video calls to connect with colleagues and to see people outside of work. In addition, please don't forget to take time for mental health and exercise and ensure you have a comfortable and productive work location.

If you're working full-time in an office, it's essential to carve out "me time" and prioritize mental health breaks throughout the day.

For those in a hybrid work arrangement, make the most of your in-office days by enjoying lunch and social time with colleagues. Remember to prioritize your mental health on your remote work days.

In addition to these tips, consider using a mental health app, like Headspace , to support your mental health as much or as little as needed. It's also beneficial to talk to your partner, close friends, or parents about any mental health struggles you may be facing.

Finally, it's essential to break down the stigma around mental health for others and be an advocate for mental health awareness.

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