By Nicole Ward, Data Journalist, Research & Innovation
Average reading time: 3 minutes
Whether someone is starting out in their career or at the highest level, work-related stress is a problem for everyone, and it can affect mental health. Recently, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has emphasized the importance of mental and physical health for entrepreneurs. However, everyone balancing responsibilities can benefit from prioritizing all aspects of their health to combat mental fatigue.
Mental health is everyone’s concern
You don’t have to be starting a company to experience stress, uncertainty, or regret; these are all part of the human experience. The key is to diffuse negative feelings before they overwhelm you—something easier said than done.
Data released in April by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) indicated that the prevalence of depression in U.S. adolescents and adults increased by 60% in the past decade.
This adds to CDC findings that said more than 49,000 adults died by suicide in 2023, or one death every 11 minutes. That data set showed that another 1.5 million adults attempted suicide.
Crystal Lockett-Thomas, licensed professional counselor supervisor and Clinical Director at Bright Futures, who also teaches at the University of North Texas, held a session at the Dallas Regional Chamber during Mental Health Awareness Month for employees. She pointed out that whether it’s a mood disorder or psychotic illness, mental health is something that impacts everyone. She says it’s critical to check in with each other, not just during advocacy months like September’s National Suicide Prevention Month but year-round. That can be as simple as saying to a friend or colleague, “Hey, it seems like something’s got you down lately, is everything okay?”
She also explained that the chances of being diagnosed with a mental health challenge rise in people who have a disability or chronic illness. In medical terms, this is referred to as comorbidity—having more than one diagnosis at the same time. Another way to think of it is in terms of intersectionality.
Balancing all the parts of yourself
Lockett-Thomas says the term mental health is not widely embraced. While some people feel gratified by talking about how they feel or getting a specific diagnosis, many feel labeled and somehow damaged. There are an infinite number of ways people can be part of more than one community, and some of the cultural norms attached to these affiliations are in conflict.
For example, men are typically characterized as being providers who are strong and independent. Talking to a therapist about something they’re struggling with that makes them feel vulnerable may not only be intimidating but may also be embarrassing. Sometimes these negative connotations compound and leave the person emotionally stuck.
Additionally, it sounds counterintuitive, but some people might not realize they have a mental health challenge. People can be very good at masking—covering up their true feelings with smiles and fake enthusiasm—even to themselves. That’s why, Lockett-Thomas says, it’s key to tune into your body.
“The body cannot be tricked, and if you pay attention, you may recognize signs,” she says. “You may realize that you used to be able to take on 15 projects at a time, but now you can only handle half that.”
She says there’s no amount of ‘healthy burnout.’ If you’re feeling detached and unmotivated, seek help before it gets worse. Just like travelers are instructed to put on their oxygen mask before helping others, the same goes for mental health. You need to get yourself in a good place before you can be an effective leader, friend, or parent.
Employers’ role in changing perception
“Why struggle in life if you don’t have to?” asks Lockett-Thomas.
Emotional regulation is crucial to our happiness, and while many things are beyond our control, taking charge of our own mental health isn’t something we need permission for.
Additionally, given that we spend a significant portion of our lives at work, companies have an opportunity to shift the perception of mental health and the discussion surrounding it.
“People at the top—CEOs or other senior leaders—can help destigmatize and demystify mental health by being open.”
She suggests that this could involve sharing a personal story or setting up small but consistent opportunities to learn and discuss mental health.
“Lunch and learns are a great way to get people comfortable with the topic in a non-confrontational way.”
She also says organizations need to show their care by being intentional in everything from broad policies to the words leaders use. With one-in-five U.S. adults experiencing mental illness each year, there’s no better time to start than now.