There are many ways to care for your mental health. One is to learn more about the comprehensive services provided by the Faculty and Staff Counseling and Consultation Office (FASCCO) and the Michigan Medicine Office of Counseling and Workplace Resilience (OCWR). You can learn more on the Mental and Emotional Health webpage or watch this recorded webinar for information on confidential and compassionate counseling options, as well as guidance on team support, consultations, and referrals.

Suggestions to support mental health from MHealthy Champions

In addition to seeking support from professionals, there are many positive practices you and your team can integrate into your everyday work and help create a positive work environment.

In recognition of May being Mental Health Awareness Month, MHealthy Champions were invited to share examples of experiences in their own workplaces which support mental health and overall well-being. Some are focused on actions that can help an individual, while others are focused on supporting team dynamics.  

• “We have a workplace committee that recognizes staff and faculty during anniversaries, births, weddings, etc., as well as sending out ‘Thinking of You’ cards. We also host ‘Mix and Mingle Appreciations,’ Healthcare Profession Recognition observances, and peer nominations for recognition awards.”
• “I’m a visual person and write a list for almost everything. When I reflect on the day and see that I only crossed off a fraction of the tasks I wanted to complete, I don’t feel defeated. I challenge myself to focus on the things I did accomplish, which makes it easier to be kind and give myself grace.”
• “Our leadership models gratitude and recognition of staff at our daily huddle and in a weekly email. It could be a mention from a peer of going above and beyond or comments made by patients.”
• “My team wanted ways to get out in nature during the winter months, so I planned an outing to the Arb to experience the special ‘Earth Song: A Black Nature Walk’ exhibit. As a team, we braved the cold and took turns reading the posted poems aloud to one another, followed by brief discussions of each piece. We ended by sharing what we each took away from the exhibit and also shared appreciation for our ability to engage with nature and to enjoy this experience together as a team.”
• “Our department recently hosted a self-defense class tailored for individuals who frequently work with behaviorally challenging patients. Participants reported feeling more empowered and experienced a strong sense of camaraderie, knowing that their safety and well-being are priorities. In the past, we have also implemented other mental health support practices, such as Stress First Aid rounding. These initiatives collectively underscore our dedication to fostering a workplace environment where staff feel heard, respected, and well-prepared to manage the challenges inherent in their critical roles.”
• “Our team’s director set up a service opportunity for us at Food Gatherers. We toured the facility, learned about the organization’s impact, and sorted through 1,328 pounds of donated produce. It was a great event for all of us to do something together outside of the office. We were able to contribute our time in support of a great cause and really connect personally. Both of those things felt really good.”
• “Our team makes concerted efforts to engage in supporting one another as whole people. For example, at a recent meeting, we prompted our team to highlight aspects of one another that we appreciate. Each person received a big sticky note, and we placed small sticky notes of things we appreciate on each person’s large note. I still have mine hanging up in my office, and it’s nice to read and be reminded of specific reasons I am appreciated.”

Need to Talk? We're Here for You

If you or someone you know needs extra support, remember that confidential help is just a call away. Faculty and staff can schedule time to talk with professional counselors at no charge. If you work on an academic campus, reach out to the Faculty and Staff Counseling and Consultation Office (FASCCO) at 734-936-8660 or via email at [email protected]. If you work at Michigan Medicine, reach out to the Office of Counseling and Workplace Resilience (OCWR) by calling 734-763-5409 or sending an email to [email protected].