Prioritizing Mental Health in the Workplace: Breaking Stigma & Building Support

By Dr. Nicole Shaffer, DNP,CRNP-BC, COHN-S, FAAOHN, Senior Director of Occupational Health & Wellness, Pfizer

Mental health is an integral part of a person’s overall well-being and should be treated with the same importance as conditions like diabetes, cancer, or hypertension. By normalizing discussions and support for mental health challenges, we create an environment where colleagues feel valued and empowered to seek help when needed.

At Pfizer, we are committed to fostering a workplace where mental health is prioritized just as much as physical health. Our goal is not only to provide resources and programs that support colleagues and their families but also to encourage open conversations that help break the stigma surrounding mental health.

To support this commitment, Pfizer offers various programs, including our Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which provides colleagues and their family members worldwide with free access to counselors, training, and resources. Pfizer partners with Thrive Global to empower colleagues to take ownership of their mental health and wellness through tools and resources integrated into our company’s culture. This includes the Thrive app, which offers behavior change technology designed to combat stress and burnout, and initiatives like 'Wellness Day,' an extra paid day off for colleagues to focus on their health and well-being.

Additionally, we have dedicated Colleague Resource Groups focused on neurodiversity and disabilities. As part of our neurodivergent support initiatives, we have established quiet rooms at our sites to help colleagues manage sensory overstimulation and restore focus.

We also provide wellness programs that promote meditation, nutrition, and stress management, offering practical tools to enhance mental well-being. Furthermore, we offer training sessions designed to educate colleagues on how to support one another through both mental and physical challenges. By recognizing changes in a coworker’s behavior, actively listening, and fostering a culture of empathy, we can reduce isolation and ensure that no one feels stigmatized for seeking help.

At Pfizer, we believe that a workplace built on compassion and understanding is key to prioritizing mental health. Together, we can create a culture where colleagues feel safe to share their experiences and access the support they need to thrive.