Mental Health Matters: Recognizing the Signs and Supporting One Another

Mental health shapes how we think, feel, connect with others, and move through daily life. It influences how we show up at home, at work, and in our communities. While progress has been made in reducing stigma, many people still carry anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, burnout, stress, and loneliness without anyone noticing. Too often, they struggle in silence because asking for help can feel overwhelming. Mental Health Awareness Month offers an important opportunity to pause, reflect on our own well-being, notice those around us, and create space for honest conversations, support, and healing.

Breaking the stigma around mental health remains essential because it deserves the same attention, compassion, care, and support as every other part of health. I am grateful to have worked alongside individuals who show up each day with purpose, passion, and a commitment to changing lives while advocating for others. Their example continues to inspire the kind of openness, empathy, and action that helps people feel seen and supported.

Mental health challenges can affect anyone, and their impact often extends beyond the individual to families, teams, and communities. The good news is that signs of struggle often appear early—if we take the time to notice them and respond with care.

                  We can challenge stigma by sharing our lived experiences, building meaningful connections, and creating spaces where others feel supported, understood, and able to heal. Mental health affects many people in our communities, including our workplaces. Those who struggle in silence often think, “No one would understand,” “I’m fine,” or “I don’t want to be a burden.”

Recognizing the Signs

Signs of mental health challenges may include:

• Excessive worrying or fear
• Feeling excessively low or sad
• Problems concentrating
• Extreme mood changes
• Strong feelings of anger or irritability 
• Changes in sleep habits 
• Avoiding friends or social activities 
• Inability to carry out daily activities 
• Excessive use of substances – alcohol or drugs

Supporting Mental Health in the Workplace

If you are an employer or manager and suspect that an employee may be experiencing mental health challenges, protect their privacy, offer support resources such as the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), have open and supportive conversations, and focus on job performance rather than assumptions.

• Focus on Performance: Engage in conversations about documented changes in work quality, attendance, or behavior, and support the employee in meeting job expectations.
• Maintain Confidentiality: Never discuss an employee’s mental health struggles, whether suspected or known, with others. All information must remain strictly confidential.
• Provide Resources: Offer company resources or point the employee to resources available through their benefits, including information about the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Accommodations: Refer the employee to the appropriate person or department to discuss reasonable accommodations that may help them be more effective in their role.
• Note: Be mindful of the legal risks of speculating, diagnosing, unfairly terminating employment, sharing private information, or requiring medical exams without proper cause.

Finding Help and Support

If you believe you may be struggling with mental health concerns, reach out to a medical provider for a professional evaluation. You can contact your primary care doctor, review your health insurance for local providers, or use immediate support services if you are in crisis.

• If you are distressed, feeling overwhelmed, or experiencing a crisis, free and confidential help is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, to speak with a trained crisis counselor.
• Schedule a professional evaluation: Contact your primary care provider for an initial screening, to rule out underlying medical conditions, and to obtain a referral to a specialist if needed.
• Find a specialist: Look for a licensed therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist through your insurance provider’s website or directory.
• Contact your Employee Assistance Program: These programs often provide a limited number of free or low-cost counseling sessions and additional support resources.
• Use local and state resources: Community mental health centers and organizations such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness can help you find local chapters, support groups, and additional services.
• Prioritize self-care and coping strategies: Taking care of your daily needs can help stabilize your mood. Focus on getting consistent sleep, eating balanced meals, engaging in light physical activity, and leaning on trusted friends or family for support.

Summary

Mental health is a vital part of overall well-being, and awareness begins with compassion, attention, and action. By recognizing signs of struggle, fostering supportive workplaces, and encouraging people to seek help early, we can reduce stigma and help others feel less alone. This month serves as a reminder that a simple check-in, a listening ear, or a connection to resources can make a meaningful difference.