Welcome to today’s reality, where we run between meetings, emails, and a work culture that could make even a Duracell bunny take a break and catch its breath. October 10th marks World Mental Health Day, and this year’s focus is on mental health in the workplace. And with good reason! The working world has become a place where «balance» often feels like a theoretical state we hear about in TED Talks, not something we actually experience. So, let’s talk about what we can do—and why something as simple as calling a friend for 8 minutes might just save your day (and maybe theirs).
What Exactly Is Mental Health?
Mental health isn’t just a concept for psychology textbooks; it’s how you feel, think, and manage the daily challenges—whether they’re screaming in all caps or whispering quietly in the background. And here’s the thing: just like physical health, mental health can fluctuate day to day. Some days, you’re ready to conquer the world. Other days? It’s more like hiding under the covers and praying no one asks you anything complicated.
Mental vs. Psychological Health – Same Same, But Different?
Let’s take a minute to clear up the jargon. Mental health is about living your best day-to-day life with a healthy balance. Psychological health issues are the clinical side—when your mind says, “Houston, we have a problem.” The statistics are crystal clear: women report stress, anxiety, and depression more often than men. But hold on, says Svend Aage Madsen, an expert who points out that men aren’t handling stress any better; we just ask them the wrong questions. Spoiler alert: men struggle too, they’re just less likely to admit it.
Differences by Gender and Age
Since we’re on the topic, let’s talk about why stress looks different depending on whether you’re a 25-year-old master’s student or a 45-year-old parent with a boss complex. Young adults (think 18-29) tend to mentally collapse under the pressure of social media and “life goals” being churned out on TikTok at a pace no one can keep up with. For adults, the culprit is often the workplace’s «little contribution» to burnout. Work and personal life doing a never-ending dance where neither remembers the steps.
A Bit of Scary Statistics to Cool the Mood
• 44% of us experience loneliness to some degree. • One in five has few or no people to talk to when it really matters. • 86,000 (!) people experience serious workplace bullying every month.
When the numbers scream this loud, it’s time to listen. Ever wondered why so many people wear fake smiles during Teams meetings? This might be why.
What Can We Do? (Yes, There Is Hope!)
Okay, so we know the situation is tough. But here are a few tips that actually work, and they’re so simple you might roll your eyes:
- Set boundaries – Don’t be the person who says “yes” to everything just to be seen as the office hero. No one’s applauding when you’re burnt out and sulking in a corner.
- Create stress-relief routines – Whether it’s yoga, walks, or putting your phone on airplane mode to listen to birdsong (real or on YouTube).
- Seek help when you need it – There’s no shame in admitting you need to talk to someone. It’s actually pretty brave. And no, you’re not the “weird one” at work for calling a therapist.
Bonus Points for Getting a Mentor
Think mentors are reserved for international CEOs and Oprah Winfrey? Think again! A mentor can be your secret weapon for handling work pressure, developing self-awareness, and having someone to brainstorm with who doesn’t redline everything you say.
Conclusion: Call a Friend
So, here’s my challenge to you even after World Mental Health Day: call a friend you haven’t talked to in a while. Give them 8 minutes of your time. Not just because it’s nice, but because it could make a difference—for both of you.
Mental health isn’t just important the 10. of October; it’s important every day. So take care of yourself, set boundaries, seek support, and for the love of all things good, remember to live a little between work sessions.