Let’s face it – many of us have personally experienced, or know someone who has experienced, mental illness or distress. In fact, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, in a given year one in five adults will experience mental illness – a health condition that involves changes in your mood, thinking and/or behavior. The most common examples of this include depression, anxiety, eating disorders and addictive behaviors. While it’s great to see more people talk about mental health and speak openly about their personal challenges, there continues to be a prevalence of stigma and shame when it comes to discussing mental health concerns, especially as it relates to the workplace. 

This month’s General Body Meeting (GBM) focused on mental health in corporate America. Speaker Kelli Center, a licensed professional counselor with Centered Living Counseling and Coaching Services, led an engaging and thoughtful discussion around the importance of maintaining mental health both inside and outside of the workplace. As Kelli explained, approximately 66% of our time is spent at work, so naturally, problems we face at work can present themselves at home, and problems we face at home can present themselves at work. ULGA-YP members shared their experiences of this during the meeting including encounters of microaggressions (racially charged subtle blows) or having to manage perceptions of who they are while constantly affirming their worth to co-workers and other issues that have taken a toll on their mental health. 

We know all too well the stigmas associated with discussing such a “sensitive” topic with others, particularly in the black community. When Kelli asked the group to share their thoughts on why such a stigma exists, individuals shouted everything from “fear of being labeled” to “not wanting to be judged” to the belief instilled by our parents and grandparents that prayer and Jesus can solve everything. 

While Jesus can fix some things, as Kelli shared, it’s important for us to not only recognize the symptoms of mental distress (anxiety and depression for example) but to also feel comfortable addressing it by seeking counseling. In doing so, one must be willing to put in the work to address his or her underlying emotional and behavioral issues and find a counselor that will help by creating a treatment plan that works best for you.

 As with any direct service relationship, it’s critical to do your research – search for licensed professionals that you believe may best meet your needs and conduct introduction calls with them to learn more about their approach and services to see if it’s a good fit. If someone you meet is not a good fit, Kelli encouraged not to give up, but continue to explore options until you find a professional that understands your needs and will meet you where you are. 

Finally, Kelli recommended looking at your company’s Employee Assistance Program to determine if counseling services are included as part of employee benefits and visit pyschologytoday.com to find a local mental health provider. 

Overall, at work and at home, it’s important to focus on increasing your emotional wellness. The steps Kelli provided to do this include:

• Communicating feelings positively
• Reducing or managing stress levels
• Limiting worry
• Getting adequate sleep
• Exercise
• Practicing good nutrition (physical health impacts and is impacted by emotional health)
• Engaging in spiritual practices (prayer, meditation)
• Engaging your five senses (sight, touch, smell, taste and sound)
• Positively impact others (random acts of kindness)
• Schedule time for self-care

With the holidays approaching and the stress the season can bring, from both a professional and personal perspective, October’s GBM was a good reminder of the importance of addressing mental health, being mindful of our emotional well-being and being unashamed to seek professional support. 

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