Chances are you have felt the impact of added stressors from the COVID-19 pandemic over the past year, and you are not alone. One study noted that 55% of workers worldwide found changes to work routines and organizations stressful, while almost half of all respondents felt lonely or isolated when working from home.

As communicators continue managing colleagues in a remote environment and some plan for re-entry into the physical workplace, how can mental health remain a priority? In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, review these resources for supporting well-being in the workplace, as well as self-care strategies for you and your team.  

Mental Health in the Workplace

‘Supporting Mental Health in the Post-Pandemic Workplace’

The pandemic created an unexpected opportunity for more open conversations about mental health in the workplace. So, how can organizations continue this in a post-pandemic world? The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) shares how acknowledging mental illness and offering benefits and accommodations for mental health conditions can contribute to a more safe and supportive environment. Read more.  

‘How Companies and Employees Can Face the Global Mental Health Crisis Together’

As more organizations prioritize work-life balance and employees do their part to bring a healthy mind to work each day, “the potential for a sustainable career trajectory and the company’s bottom line are guaranteed.” This feature from Forbes explains how if employees take responsibility for their mental health, leaders practice empathy, and organizations create a safe environment that values their employees’ lives in and out of work, we can build a more mindful and healthy workplace, both in and out of the office. Read more. 

‘Improving Workplace Mental Health Must Be a Strategic Imperative’

Many communicators have a seat at the table when it comes to strategic decisions. Have you incorporated mental health into your organization’s strategy yet? “People bring mental health challenges to work and we need to do things to help them,” Daryl Tol, executive vice president of One Mind at Work, says in this Human Resource Executive article. “The reality is we cause a lot of those problems.” By prioritizing mental health in strategic conversations, organizations can put their people first and give them a purpose and connection to their work and colleagues. Read more.

‘6 Ways to Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month’

There’s still time to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month — and prioritizing mental health does not have to be restricted to 31 days in the year. Create employee connections, define stress and anxiety, encourage healthy technology habits and more to help your employees stay well and succeed all year around. Read more.

Elevate Your Mental Health

‘31 Tips to Boost Your Mental Health’

Are you looking for simple ways to add a mindful break to your day? From journaling and making a good cup of coffee to hosting a dance party for one and getting outdoors, Mental Health America has 31 tips to give you a boost of joy. Read more.

‘5 Ways to Improve Your Mental Health by Volunteering’

Give back to yourself by giving back to others. According to this piece from Psychology Today, giving your time to causes you are passionate about is an excellent mental and emotional lift, and it can improve your overall mood and outlook on life. Read more.

Mental health awareness doesn’t end with the month of May. Use these resources all year to create a healthy, productive and mindful work environment for you and your colleagues.

Do you have a go-to resource of your own? Send it to the Catalyst editors at catalyst@iabc.com to be featured in a future resource roundup.

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