The State of Workplace Mental Health: A Deep Dive with a Smile (and hands I can feel thank goodness)

Let’s talk about workplace mental health—a topic that’s both incredibly important and, let’s be honest, often swept under the rug like the mysterious leftovers in the office fridge. Mental health isn’t just about having a good day at work; it’s about ensuring that your workplace doesn’t become the next villain in your life story.

Mental Health by the Numbers

Did you know that in the U.S., nearly 1 in 4 adults experience a mental health condition each year? Yup, that’s 25%. And in our workspaces, almost 18% of employees grapple with anxiety and depression monthly. Imagine that! It’s like the coffee machine breaking down—it's more common than you’d like to admit, but we tend to ignore it until it’s a full-blown crisis.

I myself have been in this seat and more than once in my adult life. The last bout was right before I started be the change HR. I was so mentally unwell that my medical doctor was pleading with me to take a leave. After three months of several physical symptoms on top of the mental ones, I agreed to go on leave. It's one of the best decisions I've made, next to quitting drinking alcohol, because it resulted in this business I love so much. Also, I never want to be in a mental health position where I cannot feel my hands or face on a daily! Or lose a lot of hair. Or have high blood pressure. There's more but I will stop there.

Workplace Woes and Worries

When mental health isn’t managed well in the workplace, it’s like trying to drive a car with the handbrake on. You can’t go full speed, and eventually, something’s going to give. Productivity dips, engagement falls, and suddenly, your best people are just going through the motions, waiting for 5 PM like it’s a lifeline.

The Legal Lowdown

Thank goodness for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This superhero of legislation protects employees with psychiatric disabilities from discrimination. It’s like having a safety net that ensures people can ask for what they need—whether it’s a bit more flexibility in their schedules or the option to work from home on those tougher days. <- a result like this is part of the "reasonable accommodation" process. This blog isn't about that but just put that in your back brain pocket if you need it later.

Building a Culture That Cares

Now, here’s where things get real. A toxic work environment can be the kryptonite to good mental health. But flip that script, and a supportive workplace can be like a daily dose of positivity. Imagine an office where everyone’s got your back, where your struggles are met with understanding instead of judgment. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, it’s possible if employers are willing to invest in creating that culture.

Why It All Matters

Investing in mental health isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” It’s a game-changer. When employees feel supported, they’re not just clocking in and out—they’re engaged, productive, and loyal. And in the long run, that means better business outcomes. Think of it as a win-win: happier employees, stronger business.

In conclusion, mental health in the workplace isn’t something we can afford to ignore. It’s time to face it head-on, with a smile and maybe a joke or two, because after all, laughter is great medicine. Just make sure you’re also offering that flexibility, understanding, and those all-important benefits that can really make a difference.

In Mental Health Support and Hands I Can Feel,

-L

LeiLani E. Quiray is the Founder and CEO of be the change HR , Inc., certified Minority and Woman owned, a conscious company and social enterprise, providing HR support for small-to-medium sized businesses in any facet of HR from pre-hire to post-term and everything else that happens in between. She and her team also teach free job readiness courses and provide free coaching to trafficking survivors.? Her team is not only HR Pros, they are Life Changers.?

?If you’d like to chat with someone on our Squad for a free consult or are interested in our services book timehere .