Let's Talk: starting the conversation about mental health at work

Mental health is a significant concern in Australia, with over 45% of Australians aged 16-85 having experienced a mental disorder at some point in their lives.

Stressful environments, heavy workloads, lack of support, and unclear expectations can exacerbate mental health challenges. That’s why encouraging open conversations at work is crucial to help identify challenges, provide support, and create a culture where employees feel valued and empowered to seek help.

However, despite the importance of open discussions, many individuals facing mental health challenges are reluctant to speak up at work.

They may worry about being seen as weak, unreliable or even unprofessional. They may even be concerned that by disclosing mental ill health, they will impact their career progression or lose their job. This lack of trust in leadership can keep many employees silent about their struggles.

Alongside the fear of judgement, there is also a lot of uncertainty about how to even start the conversation and who to reach out to about their mental health challenges.

Who could I speak to?

Think about who you’re talking to and how they can help. The right person can make all the difference when discussing mental health in the workplace. Finding the right support network is key to ensure the conversation will be constructive and that you're sharing the right information with the right people.

Colleague as a First Step

Sometimes speaking to a trusted co-worker, can provide comfort and help individuals in feeling less isolated. It may be enough to use them as a listening ear when you need to vent or seek a moral boost. They may also be able to support you in making a plan of action around the next steps including resource options or how to strategise for a conversation with your Manager.

Know that your colleague may not be the right choice if you're struggling to perform your role or if you need workplace accommodations put in place, as typically colleagues do not have that decision-making power.

Talking to Your Manager

Each employee / Manager relationship is unique. If you feel confident to speak to your Manager, then they may be able to action accommodations to your working conditions to support you through a challenging time.

If your mental health is impacting work performance, you may be provided with flexibility in work hours, workload or the option to work remotely, allowing you to manage your health whilst maintaining your work responsibilities.

It is good to come into this conversation with your Manager knowing the reasons behind why you are telling them, what you want them to do and what you intend to do. Take ownership and be accountable. Not all Managers care about this topic or want to discuss this with their team unfortunately. If that is the case, then you may want to escalate your discussions to HR.

Approaching HR

HR can connect you to resources, manage logistics, invoke policies on mental health and well-being, and make formal accommodations if required. If it is an emergency situation where you need to have extended time off, it is important to let HR know so that they can manage the situation effectively for you.

Many organisations offer confidential counselling services through an EAP (Employee Assistant Program) and HR will be able to help individuals access this support when required.

HR may be able to provide support but do remember that they are not medically trained as mental health professionals.

Let's Talk...

Starting the conversation about mental health at work can feel challenging. Approaching it with openness and honesty is key.

Self-reflect and consider:

• Are you ready to have this conversation with others at work, and if so - why?
• What do you specifically want to share and what outcomes are you hoping to achieve?
• Will talking to people at work about my mental health provide the kind of support that I need?
• What am I prepared to do after this conversation?

What should I say?

When you feel ready, reach out to the person you want to speak with, and find the right time and space to have the conversation.

Be open and share why you chose them to speak to and any fears you may have about having the conversation. Speak clearly and make sure they understand.

Some example conversations:

"I wanted to talk about something that has been affecting me lately. I've been experiencing some mental health challenges, and I think it is important to be open about it. I am hoping we can find a way to make sure I am getting the support I need while continuing to do my best at work"

"Lately, I’ve been feeling overwhelmed with my mental health, and it’s starting to affect my focus. I was hoping we could talk about some ways to make things easier"

"I just wanted to share something with you. I have been going through a bit of a rough patch with my mental health lately, which has been affecting my energy and focus at work. I'm still managing to get things done, but I thought I would let you know in case you have noticed any changes in my behaviour or performance."

"I have been struggling with my mental health recently and I was wondering if you could provide information on how to access the EAP program or any other resources the company offers. I would like to get some support or guidance on managing things better."

By framing the conversations around your needs and a willingness to find solutions, you can ensure the conversation is productive and stays professional.

Whilst you can’t plan for every conversation, as the sharer you can focus on what you say and how you say it. Be sure to show your appreciation to the person for listening.

These conversations will start to create a space and culture where mental health is not only taken seriously but also fully supported at work.

If you're still in doubt about starting the conversation then consider the following:

Benefits of talking about mental health at work?

1. It can lead to earlier intervention, allowing individuals to seek help early, before things escalate into more serious problems.
2. Sharing mental health challenges can build trust and understanding among colleagues and teams, which can lead to a more empathetic workforce.
3. Addressing mental health can lead to better coping strategies and support systems, reducing burn-out and absenteeism, and potentially improving overall work performance.
4. Strengthening workplace culture - promoting open conversations about mental health creates a culture of authenticity and inclusivity, making employees feel values and respected.
5. It will go a long way to reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues; normalising it and encouraging others to seek help or speak up when they need to.

Conclusion

Taking the first step to speak up about your mental health can make all the difference - not just for own well-being and safety, but for the entire team.

Creating a supportive and psychologically safe environment for employees means they can bring their whole authentic self to work and will feel empowered to have those important conversations about their mental health.

Remember, the earlier you talk about mental health, the sooner you can get the support you need. Take the first step today—whether it’s reaching out to a colleague, manager, or HR. Good luck!

If you are struggling - please consider reaching out to the following organisations for support:

Lifeline Australia - 13 11 14 - Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention.

24/7 Support for Anxiety, Depression and Suicide Prevention. - Beyond Blue

Home | Mind Australia

13YARN - Call 13 92 76 | 24 /7 Crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders

Black Dog Institute | Better Mental Health | Science. Compassion. Action.

Support for Eating Disorders and Body Image Issues | Butterfly Foundation

headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation

Gidget Foundation Australia | Supporting the Mental Health of New and Expectant Parents

AccessEAP

Look after yourself.