Balancing Act: Juggling Work Responsibilities with Mental Well-being

Introduction

Today I’m talking about a topic close to my heart — balancing work and mental well-being. As a bipolar woman and a staunch advocate for mental health, I’ve had my fair share of battles and victories in this arena. For me, it is not hard to see that mental well-being is important for life satisfaction.

Caveat: this is more of a "Balancing Work and Mental Well-being 101". We will dive deeper into mental health and mental illness in the workplace in later posts. As always, it's important to remember that we each experience the workplace and the world differently. While these tips may be helpful for some, they may not be practical for all.

The Struggle: Work Responsibilities vs. Mental Well-being

Life in the professional fast lane can feel like an exhilarating roller coaster. Deadlines, meetings, and the constant ping of emails can turn the thrill into a nerve-wracking ride. I've been there, multitasking until my brain felt like jello. It took a toll, not just on my productivity but on my mental well-being, often leading me to need to take time off work or, worse, end up in the hospital.

Understanding the Link between Mental Health and Work 

Now, let's pause and reflect on why this balancing act is crucial. Our mental health and work lives are inherently interconnected. Picture this: a toxic work environment can be like quicksand, slowly pulling you down. As a change manager, I've seen firsthand how a positive workplace culture can be a game-changer. It's not just about bean bags and ping pong tables; it's about feeling supported and valued.

According to the American Psychological Association's 2023 Work in America Survey, 77% of workers reported experiencing "work-related stress in the last month". 57% of study participants experienced work-related stress associated with signs of workplace burnout, like emotional exhaustion, lack of motivation, a desire to quit, and lower productivity. Spending so much of our lives working, we cannot help but have our work lives and mental health extrinsically linked.

Practical Strategies for Balancing Work and Mental Well-being

Time Management Techniques

The clock is ticking, and we're all trying to squeeze more hours than there are into a day. Time management is the unsung hero of the work-life balance saga. Set realistic goals, prioritize tasks, and remember to schedule breaks. I once thought skipping lunch was a badge of honor until I realized my productivity and health plummeted. Lesson learned: take breaks guilt-free. 

Encouraging Open Communication

Have you ever felt like you're drowning in a sea of tasks? It's okay to ask for a lifeboat. Keep your team and superiors informed about your workload and deadlines. Communicate regularly with them to avoid any misunderstandings or missed deadlines. I vividly remember a time when I felt overwhelmed but hesitated to speak up. When I finally did, the support I received was a game-changer. People are often more understanding than we give them credit for.

Now, there may be times when you've mastered the time management game, and the workload continues to be more than humanly possible. Talk to your supervisor and see what can be adjusted. If this is not possible, and your mental health is taking a heavy hit, you may have to make hard choices. These choices may include passing on projects you enjoy or even looking into other job opportunities. For a fully balanced life, our mental health must come first.

Incorporating Mindfulness Practices

In the hustle, remember to breathe. Mindfulness isn't just a buzzword; it's a lifeline. Find what works for you, whether it's a five-minute meditation or a mindful walk during lunch. I started with simple breathing exercises during chaotic moments, and it made a world of difference. It's like pressing the reset button for your brain.

Importance of Mental Health Policies

Workplaces need to be mental health-friendly zones. Policies supporting mental well-being are not just a perk but a necessity. I recall a company I worked for that promoted mental health days. It was a game-changer, fostering a culture prioritizing productivity and employee happiness.

Our workplaces need to be on board this mental health train. There is only so much we as workers can do to manage our mental health if a workplace is not building policies and culture aimed at supporting mental health and well-being. According to Mind Share Partners' 2023 Mental Health at Work Report, what workers really want is "autonomy, flexibility, work-life balance, recognition, stable employment, equitable pay, and growth opportunities," as well as a substantial investment in DEIBJ and employee mental health built into the employee lifecycle.

Tips for Creating a Supportive Work Environment

Creating a supportive work environment isn't solely HR's responsibility; it's a collective effort. Small gestures like checking in on colleagues or recognizing achievements go a long way. 

I once had a manager who regularly acknowledged our hard work. Whether she was sending us small notes on Teams or giving us Starbucks gift cards, it created a positive atmosphere, motivating us to give our best and helping us feel seen and valued. These gestures don't have to stay between manager and employee but can be equally meaningful between colleagues. So tell your work bestie they're doing a great job, or give a shoutout to a teammate you know is going above and beyond.

Successful Implementation

Let's break away from theories and delve into real-life success stories. Companies embracing mental health initiatives are witnessing positive transformations. I have seen teams that previously operated in stressful silos thrive after initiating conversations around mental health at work and implementing support systems. It's not just good for employees; it's excellent for business.

Personal Growth: Leveraging Work Challenges for Mental Strength

Resilience-building Strategies

Life, especially in the corporate realm, throws curveballs. Resilience is your secret weapon. To the best of your ability, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. I've faced setbacks that felt like the end of the road. Still, looking back, they were stepping stones to personal and professional development.

However, while we can talk about the importance of resilience, we must acknowledge that it can sometimes be challenging or even unattainable if the proper supports and environments are not in place. This is another example of the importance of a workplace committed to weaving mental wellness into its policies and culture.

Embracing Change as an Opportunity for Growth

Change is inevitable, and adapting to it is a skill worth honing. Instead of resisting, find the silver lining in change. My transition from a rigid work structure to a more flexible one was daunting initially. Those who know me understand I often struggle with black-and-white thinking, perfectionism, and the need for over-controlled organizational systems. However, forcing me to work in a more flexible environment opened up new possibilities. It allowed me to tailor my work to my strengths.

Empowering a Diverse Workforce: Inclusivity in Mental Health Discussions

Acknowledging Diverse Experiences and Challenges

Our workplaces are melting pots of diversity, and so are our struggles. Acknowledging and understanding diverse experiences is crucial. Mental health discussions should be inclusive, considering varying cultural, gender, and personal perspectives. One size does not fit all.

Strategies for Promoting Inclusivity

Leadership plays a critical role in promoting inclusivity. Encourage open dialogues about mental health, break down stigmas, and ensure that support is accessible to all. I've been fortunate to witness leaders actively engaging in such conversations, creating an environment where everyone felt heard and understood. Bonus points for leaders willing to be vulnerable themselves, demonstrating that you are not alone and that vulnerability is an admirable strength.

Role of Leadership in Fostering a Supportive Environment

Leaders, it's on us. Set the tone for a workplace that values mental well-being. Lead by example, promote work-life balance, and champion mental health initiatives. The impact of leadership support on employee morale is immeasurable. I've seen teams flourish under leaders who prioritize both results and the well-being of their team members.

One favorite saying by a leader is, "If this is a place we can't cry together and laugh together, I don't want to work here." Be the leader who sees the value in bringing our emotions to work.

Conclusion

In this high-speed journey of professional life, let's remember the most crucial cargo: our mental well-being. The key is not to juggle endlessly but to find a rhythm that works for you. As a change manager and mental health advocate, I urge you to prioritize your mind. It's not a luxury; it's a necessity. Together, let's create workplaces where success isn't just measured in numbers but in the well-being and happiness of each team member. Your journey to balancing work and mental well-being starts now.