I’m going to be vulnerable here, as I believe that open communication is the best way to fight the stigma surrounding mental health.
For over a decade, I’ve been clinically diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Imagine your brain getting stuck in a constant loop, replaying intrusive thoughts or demanding repetitive actions to ease your fears. I have fought with anxieties, battled compulsions, and faced the stigma that surrounds mental health nearly every day. I’ve always been insecure about this part of my life, as it is not easy for others to understand—especially when people are afraid to speak out or ask for help.
When I was first hired at DISHER Talent Solutions, a team care advocate met with me to discuss the resources offered to its team members who are seeking mental health assistance. He didn’t know my past, but the conversation was so helpful anyway.
After that, I felt comfortable going to my coach to discuss my OCD, and he was extremely supportive. He offered to help in any way he could, and he gave me the flexibility to work from home a few days a week so that I could attend a very aggressive form of therapy quite frequently. He kept this confidential until I felt comfortable sharing my mental health struggles. The entire team was so supportive and asked how they could support my recovery.
My ability to get the help I need, the support from work, and continue to be a productive member of our team all stems from the organization being open and patient with me.
May Is Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month is an important time to reflect on how we can support our coworkers who may be struggling with mental health challenges. Being a supportive teammate goes beyond just noticing when someone is having a hard time—it involves creating a safe and compassionate environment where they feel seen, heard, and valued.
How to Support a Coworker Struggling with Mental Health
Here are a few tips to be a supportive teammate to a coworker struggling with mental health.
1. Create Safe Spaces for Connection
Start by intentionally making space for your coworkers to be known. Simple gestures like inviting them for coffee, a walk, or lunch can provide opportunities for genuine connection and show that you care. Often, just knowing someone is willing to listen and learn about your life outside of work can make a big difference.
2. Approach Conversations with Empathy and Patience
If you sense a teammate is struggling, ask to speak privately and let them lead the conversation at their own pace. Listen to understand rather than to respond or fix the problem and validate their feelings without minimizing or dismissing their experience.
Avoid jumping into “fix it” mode, as this can make them feel like a problem to solve rather than a person to support.
3. Maintain Confidentiality and Respect Privacy
Respect your coworker’s privacy by keeping conversations confidential unless there is an immediate risk of harm. Always ask permission before sharing any information with others, including supervisors. This builds trust and ensures they feel safe opening up to you.
4. Offer Consistent Support and Follow-up
Support is not a one-time act. Check in regularly, offer to be an accountability partner if they are working on coping strategies, and celebrate their progress—no matter how small. Your presence and willingness to “be in the trenches” with them can be incredibly comforting.
5. Foster a Supportive Team Culture
Promote openness about mental health within your team by normalizing conversations and sharing resources. Initiatives like “Wellness Wednesdays” or informal group check-ins can create a community where everyone feels less alone in their struggles. This collective support can significantly improve workplace well-being.
Why Your Support Matters
Mental health struggles can feel isolating, but knowing your teammates care can be a lifeline. I know it made a big impact in my experience.
By being a compassionate, patient, and trustworthy teammate, you contribute to a healthier workplace where mental health is prioritized and stigma is reduced. This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s commit to being the kind of coworkers who listen, support, and uplift each other through the ups and downs of mental health.
Remember, it’s okay to not have all the answers. Sometimes just being there is enough.
