When we talk about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), we often think about race, gender, or other visible characteristics. But mental health is an equally vital aspect of DEI that deserves more attention, especially in workplaces where individuals may feel pressured to "leave their struggles at the door."
Today, I want to share my journey with mental health and why the concept of allyship in this space has been not just important, but transformative for me.
Mental Health as a DEI Issue
First, let’s address the obvious question: Why is mental health part of DEI? DEI is about creating spaces where everyone feels they can show up as their authentic selves without fear of judgment or discrimination. That includes people managing mental health conditions.
Yet, for many, mental health is still stigmatized and misunderstood, leaving individuals hesitant to seek help or disclose their struggles to colleagues or supervisors. This stigma creates an inequitable environment where people can’t access the same support systems as others.
So, yes, mental health is a DEI issue—one that demands our attention, empathy, and action.
My Own Journey with Mental Health
A year ago, I went through one of the darkest periods of my life. I experienced a major mental health crisis, one that was unexpected and utterly life-changing. I had always considered myself strong, resilient, and able to manage the pressures of life and work. But suddenly, I found myself struggling with anxiety and depression that I could not simply "push through." This experience forced me to take a step back, seek help, and ultimately take a leave of absence to focus on my recovery.
For someone whose work centers around empowering others and fostering inclusive workplaces, this was incredibly humbling. I realized that I needed support, just as I encourage others to seek out in their own lives and workplaces. However, finding that support in a society and workplace culture that stigmatizes mental health issues was not easy.
The Importance of Mental Health Allies
During my recovery, I experienced firsthand the profound impact of allyship—especially in the realm of mental health. Just as an ally in DEI stands up for marginalized groups, a mental health ally is someone who creates a safe space for people experiencing mental health challenges. They listen without judgment, offer support without condition, and advocate for inclusive practices that protect and uplift those struggling.
Most importantly, though, is that an ally is not WHO someone is, but what they DO.
In my case, mental health allies helped me feel seen and supported. They checked in with me regularly, made it clear that my worth was not tied to my productivity, and reminded me that my health was a priority. In a world that often equates self-worth with performance, having people in my life who valued me—not just my output—was deeply healing. These allies made it possible for me to come back to work with a sense of hope and belonging.
Check out Dr. V's keynote on mental health allyship here
Practical Ways to Be a Mental Health Ally in the Workplace
If you’re wondering how to be a mental health ally, here are some ways you can start:
Listen Without Judgment
The most powerful thing you can do for someone struggling with mental health is to listen without judgment. Often, we don’t need someone to “fix” our problems; we just need a compassionate, open-hearted listener. When you allow someone to share their mental health struggles without fear of being dismissed or stigmatized, you become an essential part of their support system.
Normalize Conversations Around Mental Health
Many of us still hesitate to talk about mental health in the workplace. As an ally, you can help normalize these conversations by speaking openly about mental health—whether that’s checking in on a colleague’s well-being or discussing mental health days as part of self-care. When leaders and colleagues normalize these discussions, it creates a culture where people feel safe to speak up when they need help.
Support Policies That Prioritize Mental Health
Allyship isn’t just about words; it’s about action. Support or advocate for policies that allow for mental health days, flexible work hours, and access to mental health resources. A truly inclusive workplace doesn’t just talk about supporting mental health—it backs it up with policies and resources that show employees their well-being is valued.
Encourage Self-Care Without Guilt
In a culture that often glorifies overwork, encourage self-care and balance. Remind colleagues that taking time to recharge is a strength, not a weakness. Mental health allies help break down the notion that mental health struggles should be hidden or “managed privately.” Please encourage others to use their paid time off, take breaks, and approach mental health with the same care as physical health.
Speak Up Against Stigmatizing Language and BehaviorsJust as we call out language that marginalizes other groups, allies should also address harmful language around mental health. Words like “crazy” or “weak” can be incredibly damaging. Correct these casually harmful comments and use inclusive language that respects people’s experiences with mental health.
Why DEI Practitioners Should Advocate for Mental Health Inclusion
As DEI practitioners, our job is to foster workplaces where everyone can thrive. That means addressing the invisible challenges people face, including mental health. Inclusive workplaces acknowledge that employees are whole human beings, not just workers or resources.
Mental health is integral to who we are, and when workplaces support it, everyone benefits. Research has shown that supportive mental health policies lead to increased employee engagement, loyalty, and productivity. In other words, supporting mental health is not just the “right” thing to do; it’s also good for business.
Final Thoughts: Why We All Need Mental Health Allies
Reflecting on my own journey, I can’t emphasize enough the importance of mental health allies. They were the ones who made it possible for me to come back to work with a sense of purpose and strength. They reminded me that vulnerability is a form of courage, and that asking for help is sometimes the most powerful thing we can do.
If you’re someone struggling with mental health, I encourage you to seek out allies—at work, among friends, or within your community. And if you’re in a position to be an ally, don’t underestimate the power you hold. A simple “How are you really doing?” can make a world of difference.
Inclusion means creating space for everyone, and that includes those of us living with mental health challenges. When we show up for each other with empathy and understanding, we create a workplace—and a world—that truly embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Build a more inclusive workplace. Reach out today.
Comments