Advocating for Employees Facing Physical or Mental Health Challenges: How We Can Support Each Other in the Workplace

These days, more and more people are opening up about health challenges they face—whether physical or mental—and it’s a huge step forward. But simply having these conversations isn’t enough. Real support means creating a work culture where everyone feels safe to ask for what they need and confident that they’ll be supported if they’re struggling.

Whether you’re a manager, a teammate, or someone who’s navigating these challenges yourself, we all have a role in making the workplace a kinder, more inclusive environment. Here’s how we can show up for each other, be allies, and advocate for a workplace where health, both physical and mental, is taken seriously and supported.

Start By Normalising the Conversation

Health challenges, especially mental health issues, have historically been topics that people avoid discussing at work. But normalising these conversations is one of the best ways to build a culture where people feel they can ask for help without judgment.

If you’re a manager, consider sharing resources on mental health awareness with your team or hosting an open conversation around stress management and work-life balance. Even small gestures like checking in on your teammates’ well-being can go a long way in breaking the silence around health challenges.

And if you’re comfortable, sharing your own experiences can make a big difference. When people see others talking openly about managing health at work, it can encourage them to feel safe doing the same.

Be a Safe Space and Listen

If a colleague confides in you about a physical or mental health challenge, be a listening ear. One of the most powerful ways to show your support is simply to listen without judgment or a “fix-it” mentality. Health challenges are deeply personal, and sometimes, just being there without any expectations can help them feel seen and supported.

Try using empathetic language, like “That sounds really tough,” or “I’m here if you ever need to talk.” This lets them know that you’re there for them in whatever way they’re comfortable with and that you’re not rushing to offer advice or “fix” what they’re going through.

Advocate for Flexible Work Options

For many people, physical and mental health challenges can fluctuate. Some days are harder than others, and rigid schedules don’t always accommodate that reality. Flexible work options can be a game-changer for employees managing their health. Remote work, adjustable hours, and the ability to take health-focused breaks are all ways to offer support.

As a manager, consider how you might adjust deadlines or allow work-from-home days for employees who need them. Even offering regular breaks or half-days for mental health can make a world of difference. Advocating for flexibility helps all employees, but it can especially ease the pressure for those managing physical or mental health issues.

Respect Boundaries and Privacy

Everyone’s comfort level is different when it comes to sharing health information. While some people may be open about their challenges, others prefer to keep things private. It’s crucial to respect whatever boundaries they’ve set.

Let them control the amount of information they share and the extent to which it’s discussed. They shouldn’t feel pressured to explain or justify their needs. For example, if a colleague needs a quiet workspace or modified responsibilities, focus on the “how” of supporting them, not the “why.” This respect for privacy fosters trust and ensures that everyone feels safe and respected in the workplace.

Educate Yourself and Encourage Others to Learn

Understanding is a huge part of advocacy. Take time to educate yourself on different health challenges, from common mental health conditions like anxiety and depression to physical conditions that might require adjustments, like chronic pain or autoimmune diseases. Knowing more can help us be better allies and can prevent misunderstandings or assumptions.

Encouraging workplace training on mental health or sharing resources that help colleagues understand different conditions can help normalise these topics and create a more compassionate work environment. Even basic resources, like sharing articles on mental health awareness or including health topics in company newsletters, can be a simple yet effective way to promote understanding.

Speak Up for Inclusive Policies

Advocating for systemic changes can make the workplace better for everyone, especially those facing health challenges. Policies like “no questions asked” sick days, mental health days, flexible scheduling, and remote work options can go a long way in supporting employees’ overall well-being.

Don’t be afraid to raise these suggestions to HR or leadership. Suggest ways to make health policies more inclusive, and back it up with data on how mental and physical health support can improve productivity and morale. By advocating for inclusive policies, you’re helping create an environment where everyone, regardless of their health needs, can thrive.

Show Gratitude and Acknowledge Strengths

People managing health challenges are often some of the most resilient, adaptable individuals you’ll meet. Acknowledging the strengths that these colleagues bring to the table can mean a lot. Health challenges often require high levels of perseverance, creativity in problem-solving, and a unique ability to adapt—all qualities that are incredibly valuable in the workplace.

Take a moment to recognise their strengths and contributions, whether it’s in a meeting, an email, or a private conversation. Simple affirmations like, “I really admire your ability to stay so organised,” or “Your input really adds value to the team,” can help them feel seen and appreciated, especially on tougher days.

Final Thoughts: Small Steps Create Big Change

Managing health issues while juggling work responsibilities is no small feat. Understand that some days may be harder for your colleague than others, and show patience if they need extra support or flexibility. When you offer patience, you’re helping ease the pressure they may feel to “keep up” or “perform” as if they weren’t facing unique challenges.

Supporting employees who face health challenges doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Often, it’s the small, consistent acts of kindness, understanding, and advocacy that make the biggest difference. When we all take small steps to be more supportive, we’re building a work culture where everyone feels valued and included.

So, check in on your colleagues, be a safe space, and don’t be afraid to advocate for a healthier, more inclusive work environment. Let’s make the workplace a place where we support each other through every struggle and celebrate each other’s strengths, knowing that each person brings something unique and valuable to the team.