Today we are always connected to everyone and everything in our personal lives, but also work. That constant connection makes it easy to get caught up in the work grind and let our mental well-being take a backseat. Some think pushing themselves to the limit, believing that sacrificing mental health is the price we pay for success. However, this is the farthest thing from the truth. It isn’t weak to prioritize your mental health. It’s actually a strategic move that not only benefits your overall well-being, but also boosts your productivity, creativity, and job satisfaction. That’s why we decided to make this month’s Company Spotlight focused on mental health, interviewing our own HR team on mental health in the workplace.
Why do you think it’s important to talk about Mental Health in relation to the workplace?
Kim S: In our remote environment, so many of us don’t know how to or when to switch off work & step away from the laptop. We lack the social aspect of being in person & connecting with our coworkers. “Water cooler talks”, 30-60 minutes of lunch, 15-minute walks all gave us a reason to step away from our work, reset our minds and socialize with our peers, which as humans, we all need to survive mentally.
Kirsten B: We spend on average 1/3 of our lives working. Employees should feel safe reaching out when they are struggling. The more we talk about Mental Health – the less taboo it becomes.
What are some easy changes that someone could make today to better support their mental health?
KS: Set a schedule for yourself, prioritize your work, work a hybrid schedule so you are maintaining healthy human interactions.
KB: Look at your daily routines, are you sleeping enough? Are you eating properly? But most of all – talk to someone when YOU don’t feel right.
This time of year when we’re all couped up inside can feel very isolating. What are some things you’d recommend?
KS: Take periodic breaks to stretch, take 30 minutes to eat your lunch away from your workstation, connect with your coworkers via video chat (cameras on!) so there is some sort of healthy human interaction if you are not able to be in person, meet for coffee or lunch.
Outside of work – visit with friends/neighbors, go to the movies, join a class, go out for dinner – anything fun that disrupts those mundane day to day activities once in a while!
KB: Go outside, join an in person social group (exercise class, book club, volunteer, etc) or even meeting up with a friend for coffee.
What types of services does DiRAD offer that you think other companies should look into?
KS: We have a local EAP provider, and we have a few employees that work a hybrid schedule or are onsite every day as that’s their preference.
KB: We offer EAP, but what sets our EAP apart from other companies is we use a local provider so they are able to offer meetings in person, over the phone, and virtual.
Any advice for someone who might be struggling and isn’t sure what’s possible? What resources are available?
KS: EAP if your company offers it.
Check your health insurance for mental health services.
988 Lifeline – call or text
SAMHSA National Helpline 1-800-662-4357
KB: Talk to someone, reach out to EAP or even text 988, 988 is more than just a suicide hotline, it’s a crisis line. If you are unsure about the help you need, reach out to HR for resources. We are constantly learning more, attending webinars, and taking classes to ensure that as the world changes, we are able to have open conversations about Mental Health in the workplace.