How to Support a Coworker Struggling with Mental Health Issue at Work

A compassionate guide to recognizing, supporting, and talking about mental health at work.

Recognizing and supporting mental health struggles at work starts with empathy and connection.

Meet Sarah, who used to light up every Monday morning meeting with her infectious energy and creative ideas. Lately, though, she's been unusually quiet, her desk feels like an island, and you've caught her blankly staring at her computer screen more than once. Your mind whispers, “Something is wrong,” but what do you do with that feeling? In fact, your instinct to get in touch might be the lifeline Sarah desperately needs, though she might not know how to request it.

According to the 2024 NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) workplace mental health poll, 77% of respondents report they would feel comfortable if their coworker talked to them about their mental health. Similarly, 4 in 5 also say they are satisfied with the emotional support they receive from their coworkers or supervisors on the job.

These statistics show that your desire to help your gloomy desk neighbor is not only embraced but also a part of building a healthier workplace mental health culture where everyone can flourish. Let’s dive into your compassionate guide to making a real difference.

Why Mental Health Support Important at Work

Before we dive into how to help a colleague with mental health problems, let's address the scope of this challenge:

·         84% of respondents said their workplace conditions had contributed to at least one mental health challenge.

·         81% of workers reported that they will be looking for workplaces that support mental health in the future.

These are not just statistics; they represent millions of people sitting in cubicles, attending Zoom meetings, and trying to meet deadlines while battling invisible struggles. The good news? 73% of employers say they need culturally responsive mental health care, creating a growing culture of transparency and safety.

This trend towards mental health awareness at work implies that we are shifting from the outdated mindset of “leaving your problems at the door” in favor of accepting the fact that mental health at work is also important.

How to Recognize Mental Health Struggles at Work

Here's where your observational skills become a superpower. Recognizing mental health struggles at work isn't about playing therapist, but rather being a caring human being who notices someone's usual behavior change.

Subtle behavioral and emotional changes can be early signs of mental health struggles at work.

Behavioral Changes to Watch For:

• Performance shifts: Missing deadlines when they're usually punctual, decreased quality of work, or seeming overwhelmed by routine tasks

• Social withdrawal: Skipping lunch invitations, avoiding team gatherings, or appearing aloof in a conversation.

• Physical indicators: Looking fatigued, changes in appetite, or seeming restless or agitated

• Communication changes: Taking longer to respond to messages, appearing distracted in meetings, or expressing unusually negative thoughts

Remember, you're not diagnosing—you're simply observing changes that might indicate someone could need support. Think of yourself as a caring early warning system, not a mental health professional.

Four tips for talking to a coworker about mental health

Now comes the crucial part: talking to a coworker about mental health. This conversation can feel daunting, but remember—63% say that when people are kind, it has a positive impact on their mental health, and the same proportion agrees that being kind to others has the same effect. Your kindness could be the turning point someone desperately needs.

Empathy and timing are key when starting a supportive conversation about mental health at work.

Step 1: Choose the Right Time and Place

Privacy is key. Avoid public spaces or rush hours. Instead, suggest a brief walk outside or a quiet coffee break. The goal is to build a safe environment where your colleague will feel free to open up.

Step 2: Start with Genuine Care, Not Assumptions

Try opening with something like:

• "You haven't seemed like yourself recently. Is everything okay?"

• "I've noticed you seem a bit overwhelmed lately. How are you doing?"

• "I wanted to check in—you've seemed stressed. Can I help with anything?"

Step 3: Listen More Than You Speak

This is crucial for supporting employees with mental health issues. You’re not supposed to fix or solve—it's to listen without judgment. Avoid phrases like "Just think positive" or "Everyone gets stressed." Instead, try:

• "That sounds really difficult."

• "What kind of support would be most helpful right now?"

• "I'm glad you felt comfortable sharing this with me."

Step 4: Respect Their Boundaries

Not everyone will be ready to open up right away, and that's okay. Let them know you're available without pressuring them to share more than they're comfortable with.

Practical Ways to Help a Colleague with Mental Health Problems

Simple, thoughtful actions can make a big difference in supporting colleagues’ mental health at work.

Immediate Support Strategies:

1.      Offer specific help: Instead of "Let me know if you need anything," try "Can I help you with the report so you can focus on your priorities?"

2.      Be flexible with social expectations: Don't make them feel bad when they miss happy hours or appear to be less social. Supporting colleagues' mental health means understanding that social energy can be low when someone is struggling.

3.      Check in regularly (but not intrusively): A simple "How was your weekend?" or "I hope you’re doing well” text can make a positive difference.

4.      Share resources when appropriate: If they seem receptive, you might mention your company's Employee Assistance Program (EAP) or suggest they check out resources like those offered by Mosaic Mental Health.

The Role of HR and Management in Mental Health Support

Managers and HR teams play a key role in fostering workplace mental health support. They can help by:

• Providing confidential mental health resources (like Employee Assistance Programs).

• Offering flexible work arrangements when needed.

• Conducting mental health awareness training for all staff.

• Building a mental health-positive workplace culture that prioritizes well-being alongside performance.

When leadership takes mental health seriously, it signals to employees that care and productivity can go hand in hand.

Consider involving your HR department when:

• Your colleague shares thoughts of self-harm.

• Their mental health struggles are significantly impacting teamwork and safety.

• You feel overwhelmed by the situation and need guidance.

Remember, involving HR is all about ensuring they get the professional support they deserve.

Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health in the Workplace

The stigma of mental health in the workplace often prevents people from seeking help. Fear of judgment or job repercussions keeps many silent. 

You can help break that stigma by:

• Talking openly about stress and wellbeing.

• Normalizing mental health conversations just like physical health.

• Celebrating workplace wellbeing initiatives and mental health awareness events.

When teams promote open dialogue, empathy replaces stigma — and employees feel safer being themselves.

Building a Mentally Healthy Workplace Culture

Creating a sustainable mental health workplace culture requires effort from everyone — not just HR or leadership.

Creating a supportive workplace culture helps every employee thrive mentally and emotionally.

Here’s how teams can build that culture together:

• Encourage healthy work-life balance and boundaries.

• Prioritize regular check-ins, not just performance reviews.

• Recognize and reward empathy, collaboration, and kindness.

• Promote workshops on stress management, mindfulness, and resilience.

A workplace that values mental wellness builds stronger connections, better communication, and higher morale.

Your Next Step: Becoming a Mental Health Ally

Remember, you don't need to be a mental health professional to make a significant difference. Just show up with genuine care and a willingness to listen without judgment.

Ready to be the change your workplace needs? Start today.

If you or someone you know is struggling, remind them they’re not alone. Professional help is available. Explore our blog on Healthy Ways to Manage Stress and Anxiety for practical tips on improving mental well-being.