Trying to talk about mental health at work can feel like stepping onto uncertain ground – especially in schools, where the pace is fast, the stakes feel high, and everyone seems to be ‘just getting on with it’. But sweeping stress under the rug doesn’t make it disappear. If we want real wellbeing in schools (or anywhere), we have to start with real conversations.
Here are three practical, non-intimidating steps to help you open up – and be heard.
1. Start Small and Specific
You don’t need to begin with a grand declaration about your emotional state. Start with something honest but contained, like: “I’ve been finding the last few weeks really draining – I think I’m hitting a bit of a wall.”
When we’re specific, it helps others know how to respond when we talk about mental health. Whether you’re speaking to a line manager, a trusted colleague, or even in a team meeting, framing your experience in a clear, concrete way opens the door to meaningful support. It also models healthy communication about mental health at work, giving others permission to do the same.
2. Know What You Need (or at Least What You Don’t)
Before opening up, take a moment to reflect. Do you want someone to listen? Offer advice? Help you find a solution? Naming your needs helps avoid miscommunication. You might say: “I just need to vent for a few minutes – I’m not looking for solutions yet.”
This makes it easier for people to support you in a way that actually helps. And in the context of mental health at work, clarity is kindness – to yourself and to others.
3. Use Systems as Well as Sentences
It’s great to talk – but don’t stop there. Check if your workplace has a staff wellbeing lead, mental health first-aiders, or access to counselling. Use meeting time or INSET days to raise awareness and embed sustainable strategies for mental health at work.
In education especially, where the emotional load can run high, we need to normalise these conversations as part of professional culture – not just personal crisis.
Speaking up about mental health at work doesn’t need to be dramatic to be powerful. It just needs to be real. Start where you are, and trust that it matters. Because it does.
