Mental health at work: how to recognise the first signs of poor mental health and take care of yourself

Why is mental health at work important? 

The figures speak for themselves. Nearly one in three employees report being regularly stressed because of work issues, and cases of burnout continue to rise. Sick leave due to mental disorders accounts for a significant proportion of absences, which directly impacts productivity and team dynamics. Quality of life at work is therefore becoming a strategic issue. When psychological and social risks are not taken into account, they can create a vicious circle: discomfort at work leads to poor performance, which in its turn increases stress, making things even worse.

For example, an employee in charge of a complex project may feel constant pressure without being able to talk about it, which ultimately leads to sleep disorders and gradual loss of motivation. Promoting well-being at work is not just about individuals: it is an investment in the overall health of employees as a team and the key to collective performance.

What are the first signs of poor mental health? 

Physical signs

Persistent fatigue, sleep disorders, frequent headaches and muscle tension are common warning signs. An employee who feels constantly exhausted or who is often ill may be suffering from chronic stress or the onset of burnout. Even minor physical symptoms, such as recurring back pain caused by tension, should not be ignored.

Emotions 

Negative emotions, when they become persistent, are also a sign. Irritability, anxiety, loss of motivation, or persistent sadness can affect our professional and personal life. For example, a manager who is usually enthusiastic may suddenly become impatient with colleagues or avoid interaction, which can indicate that something is wrong.

Cognitive symptoms and changes in behaviour

Difficulties concentrating, isolation, or lower performance results are more subtle signs of mental health issues to look out for. An employee who used to meet deadlines may start forgetting important tasks or avoiding meetings. Spotting these changes in behaviour allows the colleagues or supervisors to intervene before the situation becomes critical.

What causes mental health issues at work? 

Several factors can undermine mental health at work. Excessive mental strain, combined with unrealistic goals, can lead to constant stress. Lack of recognition and the feeling that one's efforts are not valued amplify anxiety at work. A poor work-life balance, exacerbated by working from home and isolation, also undermines mental health. Finally, bullying and unresolved conflicts with coworkers are major risk factors.

For example, an employee who is juggling several urgent projects while caring for children at home can quickly become tired and frustrated, even if they are resilient.

How can you take care of your mental health at work? 

Self-help 

Maintaining mental health requires regular practice. Stress management can involve breathing exercises, meditation, sport or any activity that promotes relaxation. Taking care of your lifestyle, getting enough sleep and eating well strengthens resilience. Knowing how to set boundaries, saying no when the workload becomes too heavy, or organising your priorities can help limit exhaustion.

For example, an employee may decide to stop checking work emails after 7 p.m. or to set aside 30 minutes each morning for meditation to prepare for the day ahead.

Company's support 

Companies play a key role in protecting their employees' mental health. Implementing wellness policies, guaranteeing the right to disconnect and raising managers' awareness of psychological and social risks among employees are some of the effective ways to tackle mental health issues at work. A supportive work environment promotes higher performance and reduces the risks of burnout and chronic anxiety. Offering stress management training or workshops on compassionate communication can make a big difference for all employees.

What can you do if your job affects your mental health? 

It is essential not to wait until the situation worsens. Seeing a doctor or a therapist allows you to receive appropriate support and identify the specific causes of your distress. Talking to your manager, human resources or staff representatives can help them find practical solutions such as schedule or workplace adjustments, regular monitoring or targeted professional support. These steps can help restore balance and avoid yet bigger problems in professional and personal life.

For example, an employee who needs help may request a temporary reorganisation of their tasks or ask for the possibility to work from home in order to reduce stress and anxiety related to daily commute, meetings, relationships with coworkers, etc.

Don't forget!

Recognising the warning signs of poor mental health early on is the first step in order to avoid burnout and improve your well-being at work. It is essential to maintain a work-life balance, take care of your lifestyle and not to hesitate to ask for help when you feel that you can't do it on your own. Taking care of yourself is not a sign of weakness, but an investment in your future health and career.

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