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Myths and Facts: Understanding Mental Health Awareness in the Workplace
Apr 22, 2026 9:00:00 AM
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, recognized since 1949 to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support those with mental illnesses. The Mental Health Month ribbon is green, symbolizing hope, strength, and emotional support for those affected by mental illness. Additionally, Mental Health Awareness Month strives to reduce the stigma (negative attitudes and misconceptions) that surrounds mental illnesses.
Below are 2 myths when it comes to mental health:
Myth #1: The stigma surrounding mental health issues has been reduced significantly. Therefore, barriers preventing people from accessing mental health services no longer exist.
Fact: While there have been important strides made in normalizing and destigmatizing mental health illnesses and improving access to mental health care, many people still refrain from seeking assistance due to fear of being labeled as mentally “unwell” or being seen as “weak” by family members, friends, and colleagues.
Myth #2: Employers do not have an obligation to help employees maintain a healthy work/life balance when employees are struggling with mental health.
Fact: Employers may have a legal requirement to provide an employee who is suffering from mental health issues with a workplace accommodation. Under the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers who employ 15 or more employees are required to engage in the interactive process to identify a reasonable accommodation that would enable the employee to perform the essential functions of their position. Additionally, there are many state and local laws that require employers of any size to engage in the interactive process. You can read a past FranklyHR article about the ADA and mental health here: Eight Steps to Managing ADA Accommodation Requests Related to Mental Health.
More than a legal obligation, it’s good for business when employers take steps to reduce stress and anxiety in the workplace in ways that help employees perform to their fullest potential and feel supported by their employer. Studies show retention rates, as well as productivity outputs, are higher when employees feel seen as an individual person and valued by their employer.
