Worried about sharing your mental health struggles at work? This honest discussion features Sharon Draper, a psychologist with 13 years of experience in workplace mental health, and Tarra van Amerongen, Head of Design at Atlassian and Mental Health First Aider. They tackle the tricky balance between authenticity and professionalism, offering practical strategies for communicating your needs without compromising your reputation. From reframing struggles as growth opportunities to being specific about what you need, this conversation provides actionable advice for anyone wondering how to communicate mental health struggles without your team thinking you're lazy or can't cope.
Talking about mental health at work can feel risky. We worry that being open about our struggles will make colleagues or managers see us as less capable or committed. It’s a tough balance – wanting to be honest without hurting your professional reputation.
This question was answered by Sharon Draper – a Psychologist with 13 years’ experience in workplace mental health – and Tarra van Amerongen – Head of Design at Atlassian and a Mental Health First Aider. Both understand the realities of creative work and the pressure to always appear “on top of it all”.
The truth is, mental health struggles don’t make you weak. They make you human. Here’s how to communicate your needs clearly and constructively.
Sharon encourages a mindset shift: “See your mental health struggles as an opportunity for growth. People often think ‘I’m broken or abnormal’, but really it’s a chance to get to know yourself and what you need.”
This framing makes it easier to speak from a place of self-awareness instead of self-criticism.
Instead of vague language like “I’m struggling”, Sharon suggests getting clear: “Unpack what you’re feeling. Instead of just ‘I’m anxious’, try to identify the emotion and what might help.”
When you do speak up, focus on your needs: “I’m working through some personal challenges and would benefit from an extra day to finish this project” or “I’d work better with morning meetings instead of late afternoons.”
You don’t need to share everything with everyone. Sharon says: “It would be great if we could be open with everyone, but not everyone is understanding. Be cautious about who you disclose vulnerable information to.”
Start with someone you trust – a direct manager or a supportive colleague – and stick to what they need to know to help you.
Tarra offers a simple but powerful reminder: “Health is health. Whether it’s a broken foot or you’re feeling low, it all matters. You don’t have to over-explain. You can simply say you’re unwell.” She points out that we often don’t feel the need to justify a cold or an injury, so we shouldn’t feel any more pressure to justify our mental health challenges.
Your mental health needs are just as valid as your physical health needs, and both deserve respect and accommodation. Treating them equally – and encouraging your team and leaders to do the same – helps normalise these conversations and reduce the stigma that can make speaking up feel so difficult.
Sharon suggests coming prepared with ideas: “If you can provide actionable items your manager can help with, it’s easier for them to support you.”
Tarra gives an example: “A team member said, ‘I’m anxious about team meetings. Could you share the agenda three days in advance?’ That small change helped them feel prepared and engaged.”
Tarra reminds us: “Everyone has something. It could be neurodiversity, family pressures, health issues… we all have stuff. We just don’t always see it.” She points out that even those who seem like they have it all together are often managing challenges behind the scenes. This perspective can be grounding – it’s not about comparing struggles, but about realising that no one has a perfectly smooth experience of life.
Knowing this can make it easier to step away from the shame that often surrounds mental health. When you understand that you’re not alone, it can feel more natural to ask for help and to approach conversations about your needs with confidence rather than embarrassment.
If speaking up feels overwhelming or your struggles are affecting your daily life, a therapist or counsellor can help you build confidence and communication strategies. For immediate support, visit our help resources for mental health services in your region.
Sometimes the most helpful thing is hearing “me too”. NNC Circles are small peer groups for creatives to share experiences and strategies. These confidential spaces can help you feel less alone and more equipped to manage both your mental health and work.
Communicating mental health struggles doesn’t have to damage how your team sees you. Be specific, strategic and solution-focused. And remember: you’re not the only one navigating this.
Asking for help shows strength, not weakness. It demonstrates self-awareness and courage, and sets a positive example for others who might also be struggling.
Head of Design for Jira Platform at Atlassian with experience across in-house, agency & consulting. Teaches innovation design at UTS, advises on boards & is a trained Mental Health First Aider.
Psychologist with 13 years’ experience, developing Taking Up Space for women who people-please, focusing on emotional awareness & authentic living. Works with eHarmony Australia & major media.
Head of Community and Growth at Never Not Creative, focused on building a kinder, more sustainable industry. Leads Circles, a peer support group for honest conversations, and brings a strong mix of marketing know-how, empathy and community spirit.
