How to Talk About Mental Health at Work Without Making It Weird
Let’s be honest—talking about mental health at work can feel...awkward. Even though we know it’s important, many of us still hesitate. We worry we’ll say the wrong thing, overshare, or make someone uncomfortable. But here’s the truth: mental health is already in the room. Whether we’re talking about it or not, it’s affecting how we show up every single day.
So how do we start having these conversations in a way that feels natural, respectful, and not weird?
Let’s walk through it—gently, together.
Why It Feels So Uncomfortable
There are a few reasons mental health can feel like a minefield in the workplace:
We’re taught to keep things “professional,” which can sometimes translate to emotionless.
We worry about being judged, misunderstood, or seen as less capable.
We’re not sure what’s “okay” to share or how to support someone who opens up.
But here’s the thing: connection is professional. Compassion is professional. And creating space for real conversations is one of the most powerful ways to build trust, safety, and strong teams.
1. Start Small, Stay Human
You don’t have to lead with your deepest vulnerabilities. A simple check-in like “Hey, how’s your week going really?” can open the door. If someone shares something personal, you don’t have to fix it—just listen. Validation goes a long way:
“Thanks for sharing that—it means a lot. I’m here if you ever need to talk.”
2. Lead with Empathy, Not Expertise
You don’t have to be a therapist to talk about mental health. You just need to be human. If a colleague seems off, it’s okay to say:
“I’ve noticed you’ve seemed a little down lately. Is there anything I can do to support you?”
Approach it with care, not curiosity. This is about support, not solving.
3. Set the Tone as a Leader (or Teammate)
If you're in a leadership role—or even just someone people look up to—your vulnerability gives others permission. Saying something like:
“I’ve been feeling a little overwhelmed lately, and I’m trying to prioritize rest where I can,”
…models honesty without oversharing, and shows that it’s safe to not be okay all the time.
4. Know the Boundaries (and the Resources)
It’s okay to say, “That sounds really tough—have you had a chance to talk to someone about it?” and point them toward professional support if needed. You're not expected to have all the answers.
Just being a kind and present listener is enough.
5. Normalize It—Don’t Make It a Big Deal
Mental health doesn’t always have to be this big, serious sit-down. It can live in the everyday:
💬 “I’m taking a short walk to clear my head—want to come?”
💬 “I took a mental health day yesterday, and it made such a difference.”
The more we normalize it in passing, the less pressure there is to have The Big Mental Health Talk™.
A Little Nudge to Get Started
Talking about mental health at work doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be real. And real means caring, listening, and creating a space where people don’t have to hide the harder parts of being human.
So here’s your gentle call to action:
✨ Ask someone how they’re really doing this week. And if you’re the one who needs to talk—give yourself permission to speak up. It’s not weird. It’s brave.
And you’re not alone.