It’s easy and normal to feel overwhelmed by work, life, and everything in between.  Whether it’s stress, anxiety, burnout, or something else, many people experience challenges with their mental health at some point. If you are experiencing any of these challenges, know that you’re not alone, and support is available.

Why Mental Health Matters at Work

When we feel supported mentally and emotionally, it shows up in how we work, collaborate, and connect with others. Creating a culture where it’s okay to talk about mental health (or simply take a breather when needed) helps everyone do their best work and feel more like themselves.

Sometimes support looks like checking in with a coworker. Sometimes it’s setting boundaries, taking time off, or reaching out for help. All of it counts.

Recognizing When You (or Someone Else) Might Need Support

Mental health challenges don’t always look the same, but some common signs include:

• Feeling persistently overwhelmed, anxious, or down
• Trouble focusing or staying motivated
• Changes in sleep or energy levels
• Withdrawing from others or losing interest in things you enjoy

You might notice these in yourself—or in someone you work with.

How to Support a Colleague or Friend

If someone you work with doesn’t seem like themselves, it’s natural to want to help but not know what to say. You don’t need to be an expert to make a meaningful difference. You can start with a simple check-in. A private, low-pressure “Hey, I’ve noticed you seem a bit off—how are you doing?” can open the door.

If they share, focus on understanding rather than solving. Feeling heard is often more helpful than advice. Not everyone will be ready to talk, so let them know you’re there if they need it, and leave the door open. If appropriate, you can mention resources like your company’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or professional support. You’re not expected to be a counselor. Offering empathy and pointing someone toward the right resources is more than enough.

If someone expresses thoughts of harming themselves or seems in crisis, encourage them to seek immediate help or contact emergency resources like the 988 Lifeline.

Resources You Can Use

If you or someone you know is struggling, here are some accessible and confidential resources:

Immediate Support

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.)
  Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for 24/7, free, confidential support.

Professional Help

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  If your company offers an EAP, it’s a great starting point for short-term counseling and referrals. (Check your HR portal for details.)
• Psychology Today Therapist Finder
  psychologytoday.com/us/therapists
  Search for licensed therapists by location, specialty, and insurance.

Mental Health Apps & Tools

• Headspace or Calm – guided meditation and stress reduction
• Moodfit or Sanvello – tools for tracking mood and building coping skills

Educational & Self-Help Resources

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
  nami.org – education, support groups, and resources
• Mental Health America (MHA)
  mhanational.org – screening tools and mental health information

A Simple Reminder

You don’t have to wait until things feel unmanageable to take care of your mental health. Small steps—like taking breaks, talking to someone you trust, or setting aside time to recharge—can make a real difference.

And if things do feel heavy, reaching out is a strong and worthwhile step—not a weakness.