Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet many individuals struggle in silence due to stigma, fear, or lack of workplace support. With nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiencing a mental illness each year, it is likely that someone in your workplace is dealing with a condition such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, or another mental health disorder.
As a colleague, you don’t have to be a mental health professional to offer meaningful support. Simply being aware, empathetic, and knowledgeable about available resources can make a significant difference. At Foundations Group Behavioral Health, we believe that workplaces should foster a culture of mental wellness, ensuring that employees feel safe, supported, and empowered to seek help when needed.
This guide will walk you through how to support colleagues struggling with mental illness, including practical steps, common workplace challenges, and available mental health treatment programs like Psychiatric Day Treatment, Half-Day Treatment Programs, and Outpatient Mental Health Programs.
The Importance of Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace
Workplace mental health impacts both employees and employers. When employees receive adequate mental health support, they are more engaged, productive, and satisfied with their work environment. On the other hand, a lack of mental health support can lead to:
- Increased absenteeism (Employees with untreated mental health conditions take an average of five more sick days per year than those without)
- Lower productivity (Depression alone costs the U.S. economy $44 billion in lost productivity annually)
- Higher turnover rates (Employees with high workplace stress are more likely to leave their jobs)
By creating a workplace culture that prioritizes mental health, companies reduce stigma, improve employee well-being, and promote overall workplace harmony.
Signs That a Colleague May Be Struggling with Mental Health
Mental illness can look different for everyone, but some common signs that a colleague may be struggling include:
- Changes in behavior – Becoming withdrawn, irritable, or unusually quiet
- Decreased productivity – Difficulty concentrating, missed deadlines, or increased errors
- Frequent absences – Unexplained sick days or difficulty maintaining regular attendance
- Physical symptoms – Complaints of fatigue, headaches, or gastrointestinal issues
- Emotional distress – Crying, mood swings, or heightened anxiety in workplace interactions
If you notice these signs in a colleague, approach them with care and empathy, letting them know they are not alone.
How to Support a Colleague Struggling with Mental Illness
1. Foster a Safe and Supportive Environment
Workplace culture plays a crucial role in mental well-being. Encourage an atmosphere where employees feel safe to express their struggles without fear of judgment or discrimination.
How to create a supportive workplace:
- Promote open conversations about mental health.
- Normalize taking breaks and setting boundaries to reduce stress.
- Encourage flexible work arrangements for employees managing mental health conditions.
- Support workplace initiatives such as employee wellness programs and mental health days.
2. Offer Compassion and Active Listening
If a colleague opens up about their mental health challenges, be an active listener without offering unsolicited advice. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is listen without judgment.
Ways to show support:
- Use empathetic language, such as:
- “I’m here for you.”
- “You’re not alone in this.”
- “Is there anything I can do to support you?”
- Avoid minimizing their struggles (e.g., “Just try to think positive” or “Everyone gets stressed at work”).
- Respect their privacy—never share their mental health concerns with others unless they ask for help.
3. Recognize Workplace Stressors and Advocate for Change
High workplace stress can exacerbate anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. If you notice that workplace conditions are affecting colleagues’ mental health, advocate for changes such as:
- Realistic workloads – Avoid excessive demands that lead to burnout.
- Mental health accommodations – Encourage flexible schedules or remote work options for those who need them.
- Clear communication – Ensure that workplace expectations are transparent and achievable.
4. Encourage Professional Help and Resources
Mental health conditions often require professional treatment, and encouraging a colleague to seek help can be life-changing. Many individuals may not know where to turn, so offering information about available mental health services can be helpful.
Treatment options to consider:
- Psychiatric Day Treatment – A structured, intensive program for individuals who need daily support for conditions such as PTSD, depression, or anxiety.
- Half-Day Treatment Programs – A flexible option that provides therapy and support while allowing employees to maintain their work schedules.
- Outpatient Mental Health Programs – Weekly or biweekly therapy sessions that help individuals manage stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma disorders while balancing their daily lives.
Encourage them to explore local Behavioral Health Treatment Centers in Massachusetts, such as Foundations Group Behavioral Health, which provides comprehensive mental health treatment programs.
5. Be Mindful of Language and Reduce Stigma
Stigma prevents many individuals from seeking help. Avoid using negative or dismissive language around mental health topics.
Phrases to avoid:
- “They’re just being dramatic.”
- “You don’t look depressed.”
- “Everyone has anxiety these days.”
Instead, use supportive and inclusive language to create a workplace culture that values mental health.
How Managers and Employers Can Improve Workplace Mental Health
If you are in a leadership position, you have the power to influence workplace mental health policies. Consider implementing:
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) – Provides confidential therapy services and mental health resources.
- Mental Health Training for Managers – Helps supervisors recognize signs of distress and support their teams effectively.
- Anonymous Mental Health Check-Ins – Allows employees to share concerns without fear of retaliation.
- Mental Health Days – Encourages employees to take time off for mental wellness.
When to Seek Professional Help
If a colleague is struggling significantly with their mental health, encourage them to seek professional treatment. Some signs that professional intervention may be needed include:
- Suicidal thoughts or expressions of hopelessness
- Severe withdrawal from work and social interactions
- Inability to complete tasks or meet job expectations
- Self-destructive behaviors or increased substance use
At Foundations Group Behavioral Health, we offer specialized Mental Health Treatment Programs for individuals struggling with a range of conditions, including:
- Anxiety Treatment Programs
- Depressive Disorder Treatment Programs
- Trauma Disorder Treatment Programs
- Co-Occurring Disorder Treatment Programs
- ADHD Treatment Programs
Encouraging a colleague to seek professional help is not overstepping—it is an act of compassion that can make a life-changing difference.
Conclusion
Supporting a colleague with mental illness is about empathy, awareness, and action. By fostering a supportive workplace culture, recognizing signs of distress, and encouraging professional resources, you can help create a healthier and more inclusive work environment.
If you or a colleague are struggling, Foundations Group Behavioral Health offers Psychiatric Day Treatment, Half-Day Treatment Programs, and Outpatient Mental Health Programs to help individuals manage mental health conditions while maintaining their professional responsibilities.
For more information, call us at 888.685.9730 and take the first step toward mental wellness in the workplace. Together, we can break the stigma and build a workplace that prioritizes mental health.
FAQ on Supporting Colleagues with Mental Illness
Why is it important to support colleagues with mental illness?
Supporting colleagues with mental health challenges helps create a positive work environment, reduces stigma, improves productivity, and promotes employee well-being.
How can I tell if a colleague is struggling with their mental health?
Signs that a colleague may be struggling include:
- Increased absenteeism or tardiness
- Mood changes, irritability, or withdrawal from coworkers
- Decreased work performance or concentration issues
- Physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, or frequent illnesses
What should I say if a colleague opens up about their mental health?
Use empathetic and supportive language such as:
- “I’m here to listen if you need to talk.”
- “You’re not alone, and I support you.”
- “Is there anything I can do to help?”
Avoid minimizing their struggles or offering unsolicited advice.
What workplace factors can negatively impact mental health?
- High workload and unrealistic deadlines
- Poor communication and lack of support from management
- Toxic workplace culture or bullying
- Lack of mental health resources or accommodations
Employers should implement wellness programs, flexible schedules, and mental health training to create a supportive environment.
How can I encourage a colleague to seek professional help?
Gently suggest that professional help can be beneficial by saying:
- “There are great mental health resources available if you’d like to explore them.”
- “You might find talking to a professional really helpful.”
- “If you ever need information about treatment options, I can help you find resources.”
Encourage them to consider programs like Outpatient Mental Health Programs or Trauma Disorder Treatment Programs for long-term support.
