Your workplace is a safe space for mental health

January 10, 2024

Smiling woman talking to a person in a office

3–minute read

Why is it important to talk about mental health in the workplace?

Talking about mental health in the workplace fights the stigma of mental illness and can boost your and your coworkers’ well-being.

Dana Haulotte, human resources section coordinator at the Texas Legislative Council, advocates creating a safe space in the workplace and addressing mental health:

“According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five adults in the U.S. will experience mental illness in any given year. Acknowledging mental health needs is critical in the workplace. The more we normalize mental health issues in the workplace with constructive and empathetic conversations, the faster individuals will achieve their full potential where both individuals and organizations thrive.”

Although you shouldn’t feel compelled or pressured to share specific health issues with anyone at work, your supervisor or human resources department might want to discuss issues that could be affecting your work. In addition, they can let you know about helpful resources your employer offers. They should listen and provide a safe space for you to share. What you share will remain private. It’s important that you feel safe from any judgement or consequences.

Note: If you believe your situation is life-threatening, call 911 or go to a hospital emergency room.

The national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is also a good resource. People can access the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or through online chat at www.988lifeline.org. Trained counselors are available to listen, provide support and connect you to resources 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For TTY users: dial 711 then 988 or use your preferred relay service.

Mental health resources available

As part of your HealthSelect^SM medical plan benefits, you have options for mental health care. A good first step is to reach out to your primary care provider (PCP). Referrals are not required for mental health services, but your PCP can help you find the best type of mental health provider for your concerns.

Other options through HealthSelect include:

In-office mental health visits (Telemedicine may be available with certain providers.)
Mental health Virtual Visits through Doctor On Demand^® and MDLIVE^®
Mental health care management
24/7 Mental Health Line (provides resources in crisis situations)

Details about all of these resources are available on the Mental Health page on the HealthSelect website. This member journey flier shows the steps to take when seeking help.

Questions?

If you have questions about HealthSelect mental health benefits or need help finding in-network providers, call a Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas Personal Health Assistant toll-free at (800) 252-8039 (TTY: 711), Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m., CT and Saturday, 7 a. m. – 3 p.m. CT.

Communicate via secure chat and secure messaging Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. CT, after logging into your Blue Access for Members^SM account.