“It’s PR, Not ER”: Why boundaries and community matter more than ever for mental health in PR

As someone who’s spent a fair bit of time in the fast-paced world of PR and communications, and as part of the Women in PR UK committee, I’ve seen the exciting highs and the constant pressures in the industry. This Mental Health Awareness Week let’s hold conversations around on how our work culture can sometimes push us too hard, and why it’s so important that we all focus on setting healthy boundaries, showing empathy, and building strong support within the PR community.

How We’re Really Doing: The Hidden Stress in PR

The numbers tell a worrying story. A recent study showed that a large majority of people working in communications feel their mental health has suffered because of work stress. More PR professionals are now experiencing mental health issues than ever before. Many report feeling unwell mentally over the past year, which is higher than what we see in other professions. The fact that we’re always ‘on call’, with news happening 24/7 and the demands of social media, means we rarely get a chance to properly switch off.

It’s perhaps not surprising that PR is often seen as one of the most stressful jobs – sometimes even compared to the roles of police officers or firefighters. Data from a Women in PR survey highlight, that a worrying 66% of women in the PR industry have even considered leaving their roles because of burnout. This isn't just about feeling a bit tired; it's a serious issue impacting talented individuals and the future of the field. Prowly’s recent mental health awareness campaign found that most women in the industry feel the constant need to be available is a major cause of stress. Support organisation like NABS have also seen a big increase in calls related to mental health.

What the Pandemic Taught Us: We’re All Human

When the pandemic hit, it became even clearer how much we all share, no matter our job title or experience. Everyone was affected. It highlighted the importance of simply being human – listening to each other, offering support, and speaking up when things are tough. For me, being involved in both PR and mental health, it wasn’t just about helping colleagues but also talking to senior leaders about why mental well-being needs to be a priority. It was a reminder that we all need to be treated with understanding and care.

The Real Problem: Not Enough Boundaries and a Feeling That Everything’s Urgent

Let’s be straight: feeling burnt out in PR isn’t just about having a lot to do. It’s often about not having clear boundaries between work and life. We pride ourselves on being quick and adaptable, but if we don’t set limits, every task can start to feel like an emergency. The truth is, not everything needs to be done right this second. Yet, the pressure to deliver things immediately is constant, and it’s taking a toll on how we feel. “We’re in PR, not ER “as we commonly come across and this has never rung truer.

This lack of boundaries shows up in different ways: in managers who are struggling but don’t talk about it, which can add stress to their teams; in younger people in the industry who feel overwhelmed by difficult clients or not enough support; and in those of us who get so caught up in work that we forget to look after ourselves. The result can be constant worry, exhaustion, and feeling isolated.

Why Community Matters: Finding Support Together

The theme for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week – community – couldn't be more relevant for us in PR. Being part of a positive and supportive community is absolutely vital for our mental well-being. Within our workplaces, our teams should be a primary source of strength, not an added stressor. Strong connections, open and honest conversations, and a culture that values rest and well-being as much as it celebrates achievements are not optional extras; they are fundamental necessities.

The Women in PR findings underscore the importance of these communities. Many women in the industry feel isolated and unsupported, contributing to the high rates of burnout. Being part of a supportive network, like Women in PR, provides a vital sense of belonging, shared understanding, and access to peer support and mentorship. These communities offer a safe space to discuss challenges, share coping strategies, and advocate for positive change within the industry. They remind us that we are not alone in our experiences and that collective action can drive meaningful progress.

As the Mental Health Foundation reminds us, community provides belonging, safety, and support during tough times. This isn’t just about grand gestures; it’s about the everyday actions – checking in on a colleague, respecting break times, and making it normal to talk about how we’re feeling.

Looking After Ourselves: Practical Steps

Setting boundaries isn’t about putting up walls; it’s about building a solid foundation for long-term success.

• Think About Your Limits: Write down when you feel most stretched and what needs to change.
• Set Your Lines: Decide when you’ll work and when you’ll stop. Think about how you interact with the demands of your job and how you allow others to interact with you.
• Take Real Breaks: Step away from your desk for lunch, go for a walk in daylight, and switch off from screens when you’re not working.
• Prioritise Basics: Make sure you get enough sleep, drink enough water, and move your body. These aren’t treats; they’re essentials.
• Speak Up If You Need Help: If you’re finding things difficult, talk to someone. You’re not alone.

To Leaders: Show the Way

Managers and those in senior positions have a responsibility to set a good example. If you’re struggling, get support. Your well-being influences your team. Don’t suffer in silence, and challenge the idea that overworking is something to admire. As Rachel Royall, Chair of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations, rightly pointed out, supporting good mental and physical health is in everyone’s best interest. A happier and healthier workforce is more productive, takes less time off sick, and stays with the company longer. We owe it to ourselves to look out for each other.

A Call to Action: Let’s Change How We See Success in PR

Mental health isn’t a side issue; it’s central to the future of our industry. Let’s use this Mental Health Awareness Week to have honest conversations, challenge old ways of thinking, and build workplaces where everyone can thrive. We need to stop making overwork seem like a badge of honour and start valuing well-being. After all, the most effective and meaningful work comes from people who feel supported and healthy.

We’re not robots; we’re communicators, connectors, and, most importantly, human beings. Let’s treat ourselves, our colleagues, and our industry with the understanding and respect we all deserve. Together, we can create a PR community where everyone has the chance to do well and feel good.