Working on Wellness: Mental Health Awareness Month

Week 4: We’re in This Together

Creating a Stigma-Free Workplace

Talking about mental health shouldn’t be uncomfortable, but for many people, it still is. Stigma and fear of judgment often prevent individuals from seeking the help they need. By speaking openly and supporting each other, we can create a workplace culture where mental health is treated with the same care and respect as physical health.

What does ending stigma look like at work?

  • Listening without judgment when someone opens up

  • Respecting confidentiality and boundaries

  • Avoiding phrases like “just tough it out” or “you don’t look depressed”

  • Encouraging teammates to use their mental health days or EAP resources

  • Sharing your own experiences if you feel safe doing so, it helps normalize the conversation

Mental health is human health.

When we create space for real conversations, we help break down fear and shame and make it easier for others to take the first step toward healing.

Together, we can build a more compassionate, supportive workplace, one honest conversation at a time.

Inspired by content from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and SAMHSA.

PUD UnpluggedSarah CooperNotify, PUD Unplugged