Working Minds Matter.....Literally
Greeting folks!
How are you?
When I ask you this I mean, how are you spiritually, physically, and mentally? I do not feel we ask this question enough. Even when we do, how often are we being intentional with it? I found myself asking individuals this question but not taking time to truly listen to their responses. Many of you know that I work in student support services when I am not pursuing my entrepreneurial efforts. One of the things I have noticed form colleagues, myself, and just random individuals I may meet in the grocery store, is that their mental health has been drastically effected by their work environments.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 80% of adults with depression reported at least some difficulty with work, home, or social activities because of their depression symptoms. Unfortunately, what many do not understand is disorders like anxiety and depression often go undetected for months or years. Unlike physical illnesses, mental health issues are more challenging to identify. Even though mental health can often be a taboo topic, especially in the workplace, I chose to make it my focus for today’s blog.
Let’s look at some of the statistics from a generational standpoint
July 2018 from Peldon Rose:
72% of employees want employers to champion mental health and well-being.
Nearly three-quarters of workers say they want their employers to champion mental health and well-being in the workplace. This is rated as more important than equality (48%), sustainability (38%) and diversity (31%).
This is the case for all generations, who prioritize mental health and well-being above all other causes - Gen Z (76%), Millennials (73%), Gen X (75%), Baby Boomer (56%).
So when searching for a job how do you express your mental health needs? I will share what I have done.
1. Transparency with Supervisors- I feel truly blessed to have a supervisor with an open door policy. I went to discuss my mental health history, though vague with my supervisor. In my explanation I shared how mental health was very important to me and how I felt the need to have mental health days at certain points in the year. Please not sometimes this conversation may seem scary, but I think it is necessary to discuss your needs with your employer if you do intend to be happy at work.
2. Encourage, Develop, or Be Knowledgeable about your employers mental health policy- In one of my previous roles, there was not a mental health policy for the students nor staff. I surveyed both populations and developed a board of members’ to create and implement a policy. A lot of HR offices now for many public agencies offer supplemental packages that will cover the cost of therapy and other mental health resources. I would encourage you to inquire about them
3. Create your own Definition of Work Life and Balance- This may at first appear to be difficult I will be honest and say it took me about 6 years of working full time in my particular industry before I understood the importance of this balance in my mental health. Some things I have incorporated is to take an hour break during my workday. I have used this hour to do something that I love which is exercise. I have been intentional each day prior to seeing any clients I do my devotional and I have about 20-30 mins of meditation and prayer by myself. I have said a few times you only get ONE YOU! Cherish yourself my making yourself your biggest priority
I am certain I can go on with this list, however I think these 3 points are certainly a great start! I would like for you to know you are not alone if you are battling mental health with your career. You are able because GOD has given you the power through his word when he teaches us “ NO WEAPON FORMED AGAINST YOU SHALL PROSPER”. Please stay encouraged and any assistance I can provide just let me know!
ONE,
JAZZIE
