We spend a significant portion of our lives at work, so it's crucial to talk about mental health in the workplace. May is Mental Health Month, so let's shine a light on this vital aspect of our well-being.

Mental health is an essential part of overall health. Mental health issues are real, they are common, and they are treatable. Our brain is part of our body (an important part!) So just as we would go to the doctor if we sprained our ankle or found a lump, we need to care for our mental health.

One aspect of mental health that is getting more attention is the importance of strengthening our connections and relationships. Social isolation and loneliness have been shown to increase the likelihood of depression or anxiety. Loneliness is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and premature death. The mortality impact of being socially disconnected is similar to that caused by smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day!

Here at Access Systems, we know the most important part of our organization is our people. Supportive and inclusive relationships at work are associated with employee job satisfaction, creativity, competence, and better job performance. Quality social support and regular communication among co-workers of all levels are key in preventing chronic work stress and workplace burnout. When co-workers feel connection at work, they are less likely to feel lonely.

How can we create an inclusive environment where everyone feels supported? It starts with the way we communicate with each other, and creating an environment where we all feel safe talking about mental health.

Talking about our mental health might feel uncomfortable, but it’s the first step towards getting help and supporting others. If talking face-to-face is too intimidating, start the conversation over text. If someone is opening up to you about struggles with their mental health, listen without interrupting. Take them seriously and don’t respond with a dismissive statement like “I’m sure you’re just having a bad week”.

The next step is getting help. If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, there are resources to get you the help you need.

Let’s use Mental Health Month as an opportunity to assess our own mental health and explore how we can help others. By cultivating a culture of connection, we can improve our lives and our communities.

NAMI-National Alliance on Mental Illness Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), text "HelpLine" to 62640 or chat with us at NAMI.org/help.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Dial or text 988 if you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide or experiencing a mental health crisis and get connected to a trained crisis counselor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

References: www.hhs.gov/about/new-surgeon-general-advisory-raises-alarm-about-devastating-impact-epidemic-loneliness