Mental Health Awareness Month: Creating a Supportive Workspace

Why Mental Health Matters in the Workplace

At Poppin, we believe that a beautiful, functional workspace is more than just aesthetics—it's a foundation for happier, healthier teams. With May marking Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how our work environments can better support emotional well-being.

A supportive workspace doesn’t just improve morale; it drives creativity, collaboration, and even retention. Research shows that environments designed with mental health in mind can significantly reduce stress and foster a stronger sense of community.

5 Ways to Create a More Supportive Workspace

1. Prioritize Natural Light and Comfort

Lighting has a major impact on mood and energy. Maximize natural light wherever possible and supplement with soft, adjustable lighting to avoid eye strain. Choose ergonomic furniture like sit-stand desks and supportive chairs to encourage movement and comfort throughout the day.

Poppin Tip: Our Series L Sit-Stand Desk lets your team choose how they work—keeping bodies moving and minds sharp.

2. Encourage Personalization

A little self-expression goes a long way. Letting employees personalize their spaces with photos, plants, or colorful desk accessories helps create a sense of ownership and belonging.

Poppin Tip: Add a pop of positivity with colorful desk organizers, planters, and notebooks! Bonus tip: check out our corporate branding options to add your logo to desktop items

3. Design Spaces for Collaboration and Quiet

A truly supportive office offers both collaborative spaces and quiet zones. Think cozy lounge areas for casual conversations and private nooks for focused work or mental breaks.

Poppin Tip: Modular lounge seating, like our QT Lounge System, makes it easy to reconfigure spaces based on your team's needs.

4. Promote Wellness Breaks

Normalize stepping away from the desk! Whether it’s a stretch session, meditation moment, or just a midday walk, encouraging mental health breaks reduces burnout and boosts overall well-being.

Poppin Tip: Set up a "Wellness Corner" with snacks, soft seating, and calming decor to make breaks inviting.

5. Open the Conversation

Mental health should never be a taboo topic. Foster an open, judgment-free environment where team members feel safe discussing their needs. Workshops, mental health days, and access to resources can make a huge difference.

Poppin Tip: Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month with a team lunch-and-learn or bring in a local wellness expert to lead a session!

Small Changes, Big Impact

Creating a mentally supportive workspace doesn’t always mean a complete office overhaul. Sometimes, simple changes—like adding a few colorful elements, improving lighting, or encouraging open conversations—can have the biggest impact.

This May, let’s honor Mental Health Awareness Month by making our workplaces places where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.