As the prevalence of employee burnout continues to increase, so does the importance of work-life balance and protecting one’s mental health.
With mental health being more at the forefront of social media and other media outputs, it should, in theory, be easier to talk to your supervisor about challenges you’re having, accommodations you need for treatment, or simply for time off.
Having that conversation with an employer can be one of the hardest things to do. The last thing anyone wants to do is feel like they’re jeopardizing their career or reputation, and they end up sacrificing their mental health as a result.
Here are a few reminders of what you can do to ease your stress and workload.
Know Your Rights to Mental Health Accommodations
There are laws in place to protect the rights of those suffering from mental health issues to ensure everyone gets the accommodations needed to succeed in the workplace.
If you’re unsure about your rights regarding mental health accommodations your employer should provide or if you are concerned about how your employer has reacted to you disclosing a mental health issue or request for accommodation, you should contact specialized employment lawyers like Ertl Lawyers. They have the specific knowledge needed to help you understand what you are entitled to in your workplace.
Experienced and respected employment lawyers can guide you on your rights around workplace mental health accommodations and be able to identify any potential claims you may have against your employer. Be sure to find a lawyer who can offer free, comprehensive consultations for your peace of mind.
If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate and look for mental health supports in your area.
Don’t be Afraid to Limit the Work You Do
Even before COVID-19, many people had a hard time saying no to work. The instinct to impress and prove value to a team often leads employees to accept more responsibility than they can handle.
It’s common to feel that refusing to add more weight to your workload can be interpreted as you not being able to handle the work, laziness, ingratitude or not being a team player – even when this is not the case. When giving an outright “no” doesn’t feel possible, there are other ways you can illustrate that you’re already at your max.
When asked to work on a new project, for example, you can let your supervisor know that you’d love to help out and ask for time for the both of you to review your workload and schedule to find a way to prioritize your tasks. Upon seeing your calendar for themselves, your manager may take less important tasks off your plate. At the very least, they will have a better visual of how much is being asked of you and likely have a new appreciation for your contributions. This way, if you do need to refuse new tasks, your supervisor will know where you’re coming from.
Make a Schedule and Stick to It
For remote workers, the line between work and rest can often get blurred. Even for people who are still going to a workplace, scheduling out your workday, making time for breaks, and taking those breaks can be easier said than done.
Not only does taking breaks reduce stress, but it’s also better for your employer as well. Researchers have found, time and time again, that taking frequent breaks increases productivity. So no matter where you work, having the right mindset towards taking breaks will help your performance and improve your mental wellness.
