Mental Health and Your Career

Mental Health enables us all to flourish and reach our highest potential in the workplace. Individually, we understand and hope that companies begin to tap in, acknowledge and support the importance of well-being in the workplace.

I know it may sound cliché but the mind is really a terrible thing to waste. No one person is exempt from experiencing a mental health challenge. Frequently, we take on life stressors, and our mental capacity is forced to deal with the gravity of all the responsibilities at work.

There are many variables that can take our mental health balance off track – such as an untimely death in the family, an abusive relationship or work environment, responsibilities of being a student and parent at the same time are just a few examples. Regardless of the events or situations that throw us off track, finding a navigation system that re-directs you back to a healthy function is critical. 

By definition, mental health is the level of emotional, psychological, and social well-being – the absence of mental dysfunction, or the state of someone operating at an acceptable level of emotional and behavioral adjustment.

Our mental stability determines how we think, feel, and act – as it relays to stress, connections with others and decision making. At every phase of life - from infancy, to puberty and old age, mental health is extremely significant. As we experience mental health problems throughout the development of our lives, our thinking, mood, and behavior are molded and shaped by those moments.

BALANCING MENTAL HEALTH

Research shows that how you think about yourself can have a powerful effect on how you feel. It is important that we make time to partialize work priorities and personal development to increase your mental health.

If you are one who has a strong family and/or social connection then you generally, are more likely to have healthier responses to mental health dysfunction.  However, if you lack a support network, you must make it your priority to plan and establish supportive friends or engage in events where you can encounter new people, such as a club, class or support group.

There is a saying that goes “In order to get a different result, you must be willing to do something different.” In other words, being able to change or re-write the narrative of events, settings or situations that burdens your mental health is extremely significant. Our habits give us feelings of security and safety, a little modification can be beneficial in a monotonous work setting.

Alter your workspace with positive quotes, plan a meeting with your superior about your concerns, take a walk and get out the office on your lunch break, or hang some motivational pictures up.

SET REALISTIC GOALS

Decide what you want to achieve both professionally and personally, and document a list of the steps you need for your goals to come to fruition. Set the bar you want, but be realistic and don't over-schedule nor over-compensate. With this approach, you’ll relish a great sense of success and self-worth as you make steps toward your goal. Asking for feedback from your supervisor can help you stay on track. 

STRESS MANAGEMENT

Getting assistance is not a weakness— but a sign of strength. And it is important to remember that getting help is extremely effective for addressing any mental health challenges. Those who get suitable attention can improve and lead full, rewarding careers. Inescapably, stress is a fragment of life. Have the ability to practice good coping skills is important. Research shows that laughter can lift your immune system, comfort discomfort, relax anxiety, and reduce stress. Also, remember to show your infectious smile and try to see the humor in the burdens of life.

written by Rosa Vargas