There was a time, not too long ago, when the term “mental health” wasn’t even part of the social vocabulary. Conversations around mental well-being were rare, and the idea of prioritizing mental health seemed foreign to many. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the concept of self-care was often dismissed as something optional, if not outright indulgent.

As a licensed therapist, I’m happy to say that times have changed — but have they really? While there’s no doubt that the stigma surrounding mental health is gradually shifting, and corporations are now emphasizing the importance of self-care through wellness programs and team-building extravaganzas, one must ask: has the full spectrum of mental health really improved in this new era?

Despite the growing awareness, protecting your mental health, especially in workplace environments, remains a challenging task. The demands of modern life, coupled with lingering stigmas and societal pressures, make it harder than ever to maintain mental well-being. In this space, we’ll explore why safeguarding your mental health is so difficult, particularly within the context of the modern workplace, and offer practical advice to help you navigate these challenges.

They Say Mental Health Matters — But Here’s Why It’s Still So Tough

Often not openly discussed, there are many different factors that contribute to why protecting your mental health is harder than you think, especially in workplace environments. These challenges highlight how persistent stigma, unrealistic expectations, and work culture pressures complicate efforts to maintain mental well-being on the job.

1. Persistent Stigma and Misconceptions/Taboo

Despite growing awareness, mental health issues in the workplace are still shrouded in stigma. Many employees fear that disclosing mental health struggles will lead to judgment or negative consequences, such as career setbacks or being perceived as less capable (Corrigan, 2004). This stigma discourages open discussions and prevents individuals from seeking the support they need, perpetuating a cycle of silence and stress.

2. The Pressure of Workplace Perfectionism

The modern workplace often glorifies perfectionism and constant productivity, which can have detrimental effects on mental health. Employees may feel compelled to maintain an image of unwavering competence and success, even at the cost of their well-being. Research has shown that this pressure can lead to increased stress and burnout, as individuals struggle to meet unrealistic expectations (Krogsrud, 2018).

3. Overwork and the Hustle Culture

The hustle culture, which glorifies long hours and relentless dedication, can wreak havoc on mental health. This mindset, which celebrates overworking as a badge of honor, often masks the severe consequences: chronic burnout, plummeting job satisfaction, and a drastic decline in overall mental well-being (Maslach & Leiter, 2016). Employees who are trapped in this cycle of constant productivity may neglect crucial self-care practices, making it difficult to recognize the subtle signs of burnout until they’re overwhelmed. The relentless pressure to exceed expectations not only undermines personal health but also erodes professional effectiveness, leading to a toxic work environment where the pursuit of success comes at an unsustainable cost. PSA: Dear Companies, people Are Tired, Exhausted, and Burned Out but yet individuals show up — not just for themselves, but for their families and still find the mindset to show up to support the mission of striving to meet the “metrics” set for the Fortune 500 corporations they work for every day.

4. Difficulty in Setting Boundaries

Setting clear boundaries between work and personal life is essential for mental health, but many employees struggle to do so. The rise of remote work and the blurring of work-life lines have made it increasingly difficult to separate professional responsibilities from personal time (Smith et al., 2020). This lack of boundaries can lead to overwork and increased stress, as employees find it hard to switch off and recharge. Take Sarah, for example — a remote worker who finds her laptop open long after work hours, constantly checking emails and finishing tasks. The lines between her professional responsibilities and personal time have become so blurred that her home has transformed into an extension of her office. As a result, Sarah feels perpetually “on call,” struggling to switch off and recharge. This relentless overlap leads to burnout, as she never truly disconnects from work. Without clear boundaries, employees like Sarah face heightened pressure and diminished well-being. Organizations that support setting these boundaries can help employees regain balance, leading to a healthier, more productive work environment. As a licensed therapist, I believe that healthy boundaries in the workplace are not a bad thing; rather, they are a sign of autonomy and create a balanced, respectful environment that enhances both productivity and well-being.

5. Lack of Supportive Workplace Policies

Although many companies are now implementing wellness programs, not all workplaces offer adequate support for mental health. Inconsistent or superficial initiatives may fail to address the underlying issues contributing to mental health challenges. Effective support requires comprehensive policies that include access to mental health resources, training for managers, and a culture that genuinely prioritizes employee well-being (Johnson, 2019).

There is a saying, “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it,” but in this case, if the system is standing on its last leg, barely holding together with policies that are more duct tape than durable, then it is time to fix it. Updating and strengthening these policies is crucial to ensure they effectively support mental health and foster a healthier work environment. It is perfectly okay to change policies if it benefits employees. Implementing updates that address mental health needs and enhance support systems is not only beneficial but necessary for creating a more effective and supportive work environment. Such changes demonstrate a commitment to employee well-being and can lead to a more productive and engaged workforce.

6. The Invisible Nature of Mental Health Issues

Mental health issues are often invisible, making it difficult for others to recognize when someone is struggling. This invisibility can lead to a lack of understanding and support from colleagues and supervisors, exacerbating feelings of isolation and stress (Jones, 2017). Employees may feel pressured to hide their struggles, further compounding their mental health challenges. As a licensed therapist, I cherish the moments when corporations understand that an employee’s behavior often has less to do with their job responsibilities and titles, and more to do with their psychological well-being. Recognizing that issues in performance or demeanor are frequently rooted in psychological cognition rather than job performance is a significant step toward fostering a more compassionate and supportive work environment.

Protecting your mental health in the workplace is no easy feat. The lingering stigma, unrealistic expectations, and challenges of maintaining boundaries make it a complex issue that requires ongoing attention and effort. Many employees are left suffering in silence due to an antiquated system that has continued to prioritize productivity over well-being. This outdated approach often overlooks the importance of mental health, leaving individuals to navigate these challenges alone. By recognizing these issues and advocating for better support systems, both individuals and organizations can work towards creating healthier work environments where mental health is genuinely valued and supported.

Until next time, stay well and take care,

Zelina Chinwoh, MSW, LCSW

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is based on general principles of mental health and workplace well-being. It is intended to offer insights and suggestions for improving mental health in a professional setting. However, the advice and recommendations may not apply to all individuals or workplaces. This blog does not constitute professional psychological advice or a substitute for therapy or counseling. Readers should seek personalized guidance from a licensed mental health professional to address specific concerns or challenges. The author and publisher disclaim any responsibility for decisions made based on the content of this blog.

References:

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• Corrigan, P. W. (2004). “How stigma interferes with mental health care.” American Psychologist, 59(7), 614–625.
• Johnson, S. (2019). “The evolution of workplace wellness: How companies are prioritizing mental health.” Journal of Workplace Behavioral Health, 34(3), 215–230.
• Jones, R. (2017). “Understanding mental health in the workplace: The invisible burden.” Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, 22(4), 415–423.
• Krogsrud, K. (2018). “The impact of perfectionism on work performance and mental health.” Work and Psychology Journal, 42(5), 302–315.
• Maslach, C., & Leiter, M. P. (2016). “Burnout: A multidimensional perspective.” Burnout Research, 5, 99–103.
• Smith, A., Thomas, S., & Williams, L. (2020). “Remote work and its impact on mental health: Navigating the new normal.” Journal of Remote Work and Health, 8(2), 50–64.