Celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month: Breaking the Silence
By Rona Williamson
As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, we would like to open a conversation around workplace burnout and the stigma surrounding mental health issues. People may avoid seeking the help they need and fear discussing mental health, leading to prolonged suffering and exacerbation of symptoms. This mental health exhaustion can be a core contributor to burnout. Here we will discuss approaches for prioritizing mental health in the workplace and transforming stigma.
Burnout and the Juggling Act
In our fast-paced lives prone to multi-tasking, we often juggle multiple responsibilities in the workplace and at home. For many, there will eventually be too many balls in the air, or we just cannot continue to keep any balls from dropping. This can lead to feelings such as hopelessness, fear, anguish, as well as fatigue, diminished cognitive functioning and loss of productivity. When this becomes a chronic problem, these are characteristics of burnout.
“The key to juggling is to know that some of the balls you have in the air are made of plastic and some are made of glass.” - Author Nora Roberts
We can apply this insightful quote to a strategy to mitigate burnout. Some tasks are like plastic balls – they can be dropped without causing much harm. Others are like glass balls – if dropped, they can shatter and cause significant damage.
Creating a work environment which supports employees prioritizing their mental health and providing them the space and tools to distinguish what is plastic and what is glass will help to prevent burnout. Some tactics may include training or guidance in assessing risk and impact, establishing boundaries, effective time management, and delegating tasks. Be open to listening to and discussing concerns and challenges and any adjustments or accommodation which may be needed. Consider that some balls can bounce and be picked up later or perhaps by someone else.
Transforming Stigma
Individuals may not seek help with their struggles with burnout or other mental health conditions or illnesses due to preconceived notions and negative stereotypes, shame, or fear of losing their jobs. Transforming mental health stigma requires a collective effort to educate, empathize, and engage in open conversations. An atmosphere free of judgement, discrimination, and social exclusion is necessary. A few steps that can be taken to change the way mental health is viewed include:
Learn about mental health conditions and illnesses and share this knowledge with others. Understanding the facts can dispel myths and reduce fear.
Speak up if you hear someone perpetuating stigma. Advocate for those who may not be able to speak for themselves.
Offer support to those struggling with mental health issues. Simply listening and showing compassion can make a significant difference.
At Forum Solutions, we value diversity, along with understanding that mental health impacts each of us uniquely. Open communication and taking measures such as these to address mental wellbeing is essential for fostering an inclusive workplace.
About Rona Williamson
Rona is a seasoned consultant and business professional with over two decades of experience in providing comprehensive digital solutions and impactful business applications. Renowned for her investigative mindset and meticulous attention to detail, she also excels in communication and leadership. Her collaborative style and dedication to achieving results consistently drive successful outcomes for her clients.
Forum Solutions is a management consulting company dedicated to crafting and delivering transformational outcomes for our clients, our colleagues, and our community. With our help, clients become more agile, resilient, and connected, bringing great ideas to fruition with brilliant results. From start-ups to the Fortune 50, business leaders rely on Forum Solutions to help them form and realize their strategies. Our company is a certified Woman Owned Business that believes in developing and growing our colleagues, company, and region in a socially conscious way.