Minding your mental health at work

Your work can affect your mental health and your mental health can affect your work.

You may:

find it hard to concentrate
feel you are not performing well at work
feel stressed

Here are some ways to look after your mental health at work.

Make use of your breaks

Make the most of your breaks and take time away from your workspace. Get outside for fresh air. This will help you refresh your energy for the rest of your working day. If you have colleagues, you could invite them to come along with you.

Team activities

Taking part in team activities can give you a shared sense of belonging and achievement. Some workplaces have clubs or societies that you could join. Other employers encourage team events such as fun runs or park walks.

Work better, not longer

Getting the right work-life balance is a good way to avoid stress at work. Working long hours can affect your energy, concentration and health. It's important to create clear boundaries between work and home. Try not to let work spill over into your personal life.

Ask for help

Talk with a colleague, manager or someone in human resources (HR) if you feel stressed at work. Some employers may also have an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) that you could contact.

You can also get helpful tips on minding your mental health with the HSE's Balancing Stress programme.