You know what’s weird? We’ll happily chat about our bad knees, allergy meds, or that weird rash from the gym. But mention seeing a therapist? Suddenly it’s like you confessed to stealing office supplies.
Let’s fix that.
Why We Need to Normalize This?
Last month, my coworker Jake called in sick with food poisoning. Everyone sent nice messages like “Feel better!” and “Try ginger ale!”
Two weeks later, he took a mental health day. Crickets. Then the whispers:
- “Must be having problems at home”
- “Can’t handle the pressure”
- “Maybe he’s not cut out for this role”
Same Jake. Same company. Totally different reaction.
That’s the stigma we’re dealing with.
What Stigma Really Looks Like?
It’s not just obvious discrimination. It’s the little things:
The Fake Flexibility
“Of course you can attend therapy… just make up the hours later” (Translation: We’ll allow it but judge you).
The Backhanded Support
“Wow, you’re so brave for sharing” (Like you announced you’re fighting a rare disease).
The Avoidance
When someone returns from therapy and everyone suddenly needs coffee at the same time.
How to Actually Make Progress?
For Employers:
1. Walk the talk
If your CEO brags about marathon training but never mentions therapy, employees notice.
2. Make it stupid easy
Don’t make people dig through HR portals. Put therapy info where people already look:
- Next to the PTO policy.
- In the new hire packet.
- On the bathroom stall doors (seriously).
3. Train managers on what NOT to say
Delete these from your vocabulary:
- “We all get stressed”
- “Maybe try meditation?”
- “That’s private time, right?”
For Employees:
If you’re comfortable:
- Mention therapy as casually as your chiropractor visits.
- When someone shares, say “Thanks for telling me” not “OMG are you okay?”
If you’re nervous:
Start small. Try:
- “I’ve got a check-up today” (Technically true).
- “I have a standing appointment Tuesdays” (No details needed).
The Real Reason This Matters
Three years ago, my friend Emma quit her dream job because the anxiety became unbearable. Last week she told me: “I wish I’d just gotten help sooner instead of being ashamed.”
That’s the cost of stigma – losing good people who could’ve thrived with some support.
Your Next Steps
Today, try one thing:
- Share this article with a simple “This resonated”.
- Next wellness email, reply asking about therapy coverage.
- When someone mentions therapy, just nod like they told you the weather.
Small actions add up. And honestly? The more we talk about it, the less weird it becomes.
Remember: Taking care of your mind isn’t weak – it’s the smartest career move you can make.
