Work can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to negatively affect your mental health.
Living with a mental illness can present a host of different challenges, and the challenges can vary greatly by individual. However, many Americans are affected in some degree by a mental illness, so it’s important that we as a society begin to eliminate the stigma associated with these conditions. Labor Solutions values the complete health of all of our workers, so we offer the following advice for dealing with a mental health condition while on the job.
Taking Care of Yourself at Work
We understand that there are many types of mental illnesses that manifest in a myriad of different symptoms and behaviors. Here at Labor Solutions, we make no pretext of being experts in the field of mental health. We do care about our workers though, so we make the effort to understand and accommodate their health restrictions, mental and physical.
If you feel comfortable doing so, please let us (or whoever your employer is) know if you are affected by a mental illness and what triggers symptoms for you. Being upfront with an employer allows them to help you avoid unnecessary stress that could bring on an episode. This also makes it easier to ask for time off, especially on short notice, if your employer understands that you have an ongoing condition to deal with.
While you are on the job, there are some things that you can do to help manage mental illness without jeopardizing your livelihood. Identify a “safe space” that you can retreat to when things become overwhelming. Keep some tea bags on hand. Research has shown that a cup of tea can have a real, positive impact on a person’s mental health. If you have a desk job, make sure that you are getting enough movement. Sitting for extended hours can take a toll on one’s physical as well as mental health.
Let Us Know What We Can Do for You
When you work for Labor Solutions, you can be assured that we will take all of your health conditions seriously and treat you with all the respect and consideration that you deserve. Mental illness is nothing to laugh at or to be ashamed of. Together, let’s work on accepting each other just the way we are.
