We spend most of our time at work or with work (if we work from home). It is a part of our daily lives and it is reasonable to think that work is a part of our lives as well. When it comes to navigating mental health in the workplace, it is important to know what resources are available to you, the support you can seek out, the job protections you have, and the rights afforded to you through law.
Talking to Your Boss about Mental Health Issues
If you’re going through something that is getting in the way of how you function during the workday, it helps to bring it to your employer’s attention. You are not required to share intimate details of your situation during the conversation. A simple “Hi, there are some issues condition/something going on with me medically that is affecting my ability to meet the essential functions of my job,” is sufficient.
You are not required to disclose specifics if your employer wants more details. Stay clear and concise and keep resolving the issue as your top goal. You can provide more details to a medical professional that becomes involved if necessary. Employers should only seek details if an accommodation is requested, according to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
If you experience pushback in this conversation or if you just need a different perspective, it is your right to consult with Human Resources for help in navigating this with your manager. Remember, bring up mental health issues as early as possible so a resolution can be reached.
Diagnosing the Issue
When you have decided it is time to talk to your employer, speak with a medical professional and go through the medical certification process first. Most times your therapist or doctor can help to make recommendations of what you may need or they can affirm the issue that you have brought to their attention. This helps your employer with making accommodations and gives you different options for doing your job while navigating your condition.
If there is not a medical diagnosis, an employer may give you a two-week “good faith period” where they will try to work with you as you are working on getting things situated with a doctor. If a diagnosis or a doctor’s note does not materialize by the end of that period, you may need to go back to your role as usual until you have that documentation.
What is FMLA?
If you need more than some accommodations, it may be necessary to look into FMLA or Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) options. The Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) is a federal labor law that requires covered employers to provide employees with job-protected, unpaid leave for qualified medical and family reasons. Under FMLA, if approved, you can take up to 12 weeks off from work while still maintaining your role when you return. These 12 weeks can either be continuous or broken up. There are requirements to keep in mind. You have to have been with your employer for 12 months and worked 1250 hours in a row during a 12-month period. There are specific tenants you can fall under such as personal injury, health issues, taking care of a family member, etc.
If you do not meet the requirements of FMLA, look into ADA accommodations. Remember, there is always a way to navigate your situation.
Is your Company Offering EAP?
EAP stands for Employee Assistance Program. This is a free and confidential resource offered by some companies that offers you a set number of counseling sessions free of charge. Topics covered in this program include work-life balance, financial assistance, grief, child care, stress management, and will/estate management. After you’ve exhausted your free sessions, they will refer you to a medical professional if you still need care.
Managing Stress and Preventing Burnout
Identify stress management techniques that work best for you and can be used daily. Some options can be, stepping away from work entirely during breaks, going to your car, or taking a walk. Anything that helps you break up the day and take a step away from work. Remember to use your PTO and invest in what matters to you. When things get stressful, lean into your self-care practices and practice time management.
Advocate for Yourself and Your Mental Health!
When we are experiencing stress and impact at work the best thing we can do is advocate for ourselves and our needs. Try to bring up issues you are having sooner than later. It’s more difficult to develop a solution and make accommodations when issues are communicated after performance has declined and work has been missed.