When the messenger needs a moment

by Jen Armel:

May marks Mental Health Awareness Month in both Canada and the United states – a time to reduce stigma, encourage open conversations and champion support. As communications professionals, we often craft the narratives that bring these initiatives to life – we create messaging that uplifts, educates, connects…

But what happens when the messengers themselves need support?

The Hidden Weight of a Comms Role 

Comms professionals are often at the centre of organizational change, crisis response, employee engagement, and executive alignment. We are the storytellers, the empathizers, and often, the emotional barometers of the organization. It’s a role that requires presence and adaptability – even when we’re struggling behind the scenes.

The risk? Burnout. Compassion fatigue. A persistent feeling of being “always on.” In a role that requires deep listening and quick pivots, it’s easy to lose sight of your own mental needs. 

So, how can we turn awareness inward? 

Actionable Ways to Support Your Mental Health This Month – and Beyond

1. Set boundaries around “always on” culture.

Monitor when and how you’re expected to respond to requests. Is every ping on Teams that urgent?

Model healthy digital habits by delaying non-urgent responses and carving out protected focus time.

2. Conduct a personal comms audit. 

We audit campaigns – why not ourselves?!

Track how much of your day is spent in meetings, writing under pressure, or responding reactively. Some of the questions I’ve asked myself: What drains me? What energizes me? What can I delegate or shift?

3. Say the quiet part out loud.

Use your skills to normalize vulnerability in your team. A simple, “Hey, I’m feeling stretched today, so I’m taking a breather between meetings” models boundaries and invites empathy. 

4. Connect with peers outside your organization.

Working in comms can be isolating. Reach out to a trusted network where you can speak candidly and share strategies.

5. Remember: you’re not just a voice – you’re a human.

Take time to rest, reflect, or seek support. Just because you can keep pushing, doesn’t mean you should.

My Final Thoughts

We often are the architects of empathy within our organizations – but empathy starts at home. This month, and in the ones to come, let’s hold space not only for the messages we craft, but for the messengers behind them.

You deserve a moment.

And frankly, I do too! 🙂

Written by: Editor