A study released by The Standard in February 2021 showed nearly half (46%) of full-time American workers are suffering from mental health issues, making a significant increase from 39% in February 2019 – before the pandemic started.

Mental health issues not only affect your well-being but your work, relationships, motivation and other areas of overall health and wellness. Knowing the resources and having the courage to reach out when you don’t feel like yourself can be crucial in making your way towards a positive mental health state.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, reference the ALGEE acronym from Mental Health First Aid:

• Assess for risk of harm – Evaluate the urgency and direness of the situation. Ask specific questions like, “Are you having thoughts of suicide?” or “Do you think about hurting yourself?” Then engage in a conversation with them.
• Listen nonjudgmentally – If the person does not appear to be in a crisis, encourage them to talk about what they’re thinking and feeling. Staying patient and calm can have a positive effect on them.
• Give reassurance and information – Clearly state to them that they aren’t alone and that it is very common to be having these thoughts and feelings. List some available resources to them, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (listed below). Looking into their employer’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a great place to start as well.
• Encourage appropriate professional help – If it’s not a crisis situation where 911 should be called, offer to do some of the leg work for them. You could help them call their doctor or medical professionals to get the right guidance and counseling they need. Remind them that recovery is possible with the right treatment!
• Encourage self-help and other support strategies – Ask the person to think about what has helped them in the past. Perhaps a particular therapist, family member, friend or spiritual leader has given them support, and it would be beneficial to reconnect with those influencers. They should tap into their support system as much as possible during this time.

If you’re struggling with mental health, you are not alone. Millions of people across the country are facing similar worries and challenges. Remember that these steps don’t have to go in order, they can be administered based on the situation.

If you or someone you care about feels overwhelmed with depression or anxiety, or like you want to harm yourself, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255 or text MHFA to 741741 to talk to a Crisis Text Line counselor.

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