What To Do If Your Mental Health Is Preventing You From Working

If you’re struggling with work due to mental health issues, you’re not alone. Mental health challenges can make the demands of a job feel overwhelming, and recognizing this is the first step towards managing it effectively. Here’s what to do if you feel like your mental health is preventing you from working.

Acknowledge Your Mental Health Needs

It can be difficult to admit when your mental health is affecting your work. Sometimes, people try to “push through” symptoms of depression, anxiety, burnout, or other mental health conditions, thinking they just need to try harder. However, this approach can often lead to worsening symptoms. Mental health is as important as physical health and deserves the same level of care and attention.

Reach Out for Support

One of the most powerful ways to manage mental health challenges is to seek support. You don’t have to face it alone. Reach out to a mental health professional who can help you develop coping strategies and manage symptoms. Many workplaces offer access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) that provide free, confidential counseling services to employees. If you don’t have an EAP, online therapy services can provide affordable alternatives and flexible scheduling options.

Additionally, consider confiding in trusted friends or family members about what you’re going through. Having a support network to lean on can make a tremendous difference, especially on days when work feels like too much.

Evaluate Your Work Environment

Sometimes, a poor work environment can exacerbate mental health issues. If your job is high-stress, involves excessive hours, or lacks support, it could be contributing to how you’re feeling. Ask yourself if there are specific aspects of your job that are making things more difficult. A toxic work environment can be especially detrimental to mental health, and if this is the case, it may be time to consider discussing accommodations or even looking for a healthier workplace.

Consider Workplace Accommodations

If you feel comfortable doing so, inform your supervisor or HR about your mental health struggles and discuss possible accommodations. Under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the U.S., employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with mental health conditions. This can include options such as flexible hours, remote work, reduced workload, or even additional breaks during the day. While it may feel intimidating to initiate this conversation, accommodations can be instrumental in helping you manage both your health and your job responsibilities effectively.

Explore Alternative Treatments

In addition to traditional therapy, alternative treatments can sometimes provide relief when mental health challenges are impacting work. Options like mindfulness practices, yoga, acupuncture, or even expressive therapies such as art or music therapy can offer unique ways to manage stress and improve mental well-being. Some people also find benefit in supplements, meditation, or therapeutic forms of exercise, such as tai chi. Others are exploring the benefits of ketamine therapy treatments that have been administered in a medical setting. If you’re exploring these alternatives, consult your mental health provider to ensure they complement your current treatment plan.

Take a Mental Health Leave if Needed

If your symptoms are severe, taking a mental health leave might be necessary. Many companies offer sick leave or short-term disability that includes mental health needs. Taking time away from work can give you the opportunity to seek intensive therapy, establish self-care routines, and rest without the added pressure of job responsibilities. Be sure to consult your company’s policies, and if needed, a mental health professional can help you navigate the documentation required.

Plan for the Long Term

Mental health recovery can take time. It’s important to keep a realistic outlook and remember that setbacks are a part of the process. By addressing your mental health needs, seeking support, and making any necessary adjustments, you can create a path forward that supports both your career and your well-being.