Making Space in the Workplace for Mental Health
By Amanda Rainey
Hello friends,
My name is Amanda Rainey, and today I want to talk about something close to my heart—making space for mental health in the workplace. No matter what field you’re in, mental health matters. Every workplace is different, and no two people experience mental health the same way. But here’s the thing: according to the World Health Organization, 1 in 5 people struggle with a mental illness. That means if you work with even just four coworkers, chances are at least one of them is silently struggling.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, reported mental health issues in the workforce have risen by 25%. That’s not just a statistic—it’s a signal that we need to pay attention to what’s happening in our offices, hospitals, restaurants, and everywhere in between.
As someone diagnosed with anxiety and depression, I know firsthand how these conditions can make work more difficult. Things like attendance, personal hygiene, and maintaining work relationships can become major challenges. And when the work environment is toxic, tense, or lacks understanding, it only adds to the weight we’re already carrying.
But I believe change is possible—and necessary. And it doesn’t all fall on the employer. As employees, business owners, and coworkers, we can all help create a healthier, more compassionate workplace. Here are some ways we can start:
1. Enforce Breaks
Breaks aren’t just a perk—they’re essential. Especially in high-stress jobs like healthcare, having time to breathe and decompress is critical. A short pause in the day can reset the mind and improve performance. When people are given space to rest, they’re more likely to respond calmly and clearly in stressful situations.
2. Use Your Breaks Wisely
Don’t skip your break—and don’t waste it. I know, deadlines are tight and tasks pile up. But pushing through without rest only drains you faster. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Instead of using your break to gossip or complain (which only adds negativity), take a moment to breathe, stretch, journal, or text someone who brings you joy. Even five minutes of positive focus can shift your whole day.
3. Open Communication
Employers: be clear and compassionate about your expectations. Create an environment where your team feels safe to disclose mental health concerns if they choose to. Consider allowing mental health days—time off that doesn’t count as vacation or sick leave but is designated for emotional well-being. Even offering just five mental health days per year with a 48-hour notice could change your team’s morale for the better.
4. Speak Up About Your Needs
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health issue, consider letting your employer know. You don’t have to go into detail—just being honest about your situation can lead to more understanding and support. Honesty creates connection, and it may give your employer the chance to support you better.
5. Build a Positive Environment
Workplaces thrive when kindness is the norm. If there’s someone on the team who constantly brings negativity or causes conflict, that energy affects everyone. Managers: encourage counseling and set clear expectations for respectful behavior. It only takes one toxic attitude to unravel the efforts of an entire team.
6. Don’t Be That Person
We’ve all worked with a “Negative Nancy”—the person who complains constantly, gossips, or brings down the mood. Don’t be that person. Lift others up, speak kindly, and focus on solutions instead of problems. The energy you bring into the room matters more than you know.
A Personal Story
When I was younger, I worked my second job as a waitress at a small local restaurant. The job itself wasn’t glamorous, and the pay was just above minimum wage. But what made it special—what made it the best job I’ve ever had—was my manager.
He cared. Genuinely. He asked how we were doing and actually listened. He offered advice when we needed it. One day, I was venting to him about a rude customer. I’ll never forget what he said:
“We’re all just trying to get through this world the best we can.”
That moment stuck with me. It reminded me that everyone is carrying something, even if we can’t see it. Not everyone copes in ways we understand or agree with—but most people are doing the best they can. With 1 in 5 people silently battling a mental health challenge, you know someone who’s struggling. Be kind to them. And be kind to yourself. Let’s make room for mental health at work.
💌 Note from the Author
Thank you for reading this blog post. I’d love to hear from you!
- How do you cope with mental health in the workplace?
- Do you think employers should offer mental health days?
Let me know by emailing me at:
📩 raineydayspass@gmail.com
Rainey Days Pass 
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