5 Practical Ways to Prioritize Your Mental Health at Work This World Mental Health Day

5 Practical Ways to Prioritize Your Mental Health at Work This World Mental Health Day

To start with Mental Health, we have a question for you to ponder: Do you know how much time of one’s life people spend in the workplace? Yes, you’re not alone in spending ample time here, but what is surprising is people spend almost one-third of their lives in the workplace without realizing it which is about 90,000 hours at work over a lifetime, according to Gettysburg College

Over the years, increasing workloads have led to a common fatigue experience among people, despite their efforts to maintain efficiency and productivity. This year, World Mental Health Day emphasizes the crucial connection between mental health and our work environments with the theme “Mental Health at Work.”

And if you’re here to find that right balance between work life and mental health, you’re at the right place. Let’s dive in….

The Equation Between Work-Life and Mental Health

In reality, work can be a double-edged sword. A supportive environment can boost mental health, while a toxic, stressful one can take a toll. With most of us spending a large part of our lives at work, we must recognize how our jobs impact our mental well-being, and what we can do about it. As individuals, we can prioritize our mental well-being in our daily routines.

Here are five realistic, practical tips to practice mental health in the workspace.

1. Set Realistic Boundaries (And Stick to Them)

Getting caught up with the work is unnoticeable as they slowly pile up one after the other. But setting up and maintaining the boundaries is equally essential to strike the right balance whether you work from the office or the home. It can be this simple: create a clear division between work and personal time—turn off work notifications after hours, avoid checking emails before bed, and take breaks throughout the day. It's not always about how much work you get done, but how sustainable your pace is over time.

Real Tip: If your workload is consistently overwhelming, consider having an honest conversation with your manager about redistributing tasks or adjusting deadlines.

2. Take Breaks (Even the Small Ones Count)

As humans, we’re not designed to work non-stop. Short, regular breaks—even just five minutes—can help reset your mind, improve focus, and reduce stress. Use breaks to stretch, take a short walk, or step outside for fresh air. Even a quick coffee break away from your desk can make a difference. It’s all about giving your mind some breathing room during the day. When you return to work, you’ll feel the magic in the work already happening as you resume it.

Real Tip: Set a timer on your phone to remind you to step away from your desk. Use that time to decompress, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

3. Open Up and Seek Support When Needed

One of the biggest barriers to mental health in the workplace is the stigma around discussing it. If you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed, share your concerns with a trusted colleague, supervisor, or HR representative. Many organizations also offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide counseling services. True strength is recognizing when you need help and acting on it.

Real Tip: If you’re feeling particularly stressed, ask your manager for a mental health day or inquire about flexibility in your work schedule. Many organizations are open to supporting well-being, but the first step is asking.

4. Foster Positive Relationships with Colleagues

The key to a positive work culture starts with fostering strong peer relationships. Take time to connect with your peers and foster an environment of trust and collaboration. Team support can act as a buffer during high-pressure situations. Additionally, knowing you are part of a caring team can significantly improve your sense of belonging and well-being.

Real Tip: Make time for informal conversations with your colleagues, even if it’s virtual. Having a supportive network can be one of the best defenses against work-related stress.

5. Find Small Moments for Self-Care

While work can be hectic, prioritizing self-care doesn’t have to mean big, elaborate gestures. It can be as simple as taking deep breaths, practicing mindfulness, or doing a quick 5-minute meditation. Self-care is about finding moments in your day where you’re only you and taking care of your mental health in ways that work for you.

Real Tip: Keep a small item at your desk that brings you comfort, like a stress ball, a calming photo, or a plant. These small things can offer moments of calm during a busy day.

The Bottomline

As World Mental Health Day reminds us, workplaces play a big role in our overall well-being. This year’s theme, “Mental Health at Work,” is an opportunity to reflect on how we can create healthier environments for ourselves and each other. By setting boundaries, taking breaks, opening up about mental health, fostering connections, and practicing self-care, we can make work a place that supports mental health rather than hinders it.

Prioritizing mental health isn’t just about surviving the workday—it’s about thriving at work and beyond.

Sources:

https://www.gettysburg.edu/news/stories?id=79db7b34-630c-4f49-ad32-4ab9ea48e72b

https://acuityinternational.com/blog/mental-health-at-work/

https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/promotion-prevention/mental-health-in-the-workplace

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3062016/

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/publications/how-support-mental-health-work

https://www.helpguide.org/wellness/career/mental-health-in-the-workplace


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