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Mental Health for Tech Workers

Software engineers, PMs, designers, founders, tech executives. Real stats, specific resources, and guidance written for the particular culture of this profession — not generic advice.

The numbers
~40% of tech workers report burnout. Silicon Valley founder depression: 2×. 'Tech worker' is a top-10 profession by anxiety rates.
~12M US tech workers

Why mental health looks different here

Impostor syndrome is endemic. Layoff cycles trigger anxiety spirals. Remote work + async tools create isolation. Plus: tech culture praises optimization, which men channel into self-measurement.

Profession-specific resources

Built for your job. Not generic EAP. These know the culture.

OSMH (Open Sourcing Mental Illness)
Tech-worker-focused non-profit. Speakers, resources, community.
Open →
Hackers + Founders Mental Health
Peer meetups + online support.
Open →
Nivati, Spring Health, Modern Health
Most mid-to-large tech employers offer these platforms — free therapy sessions included.
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Most common issues in tech workers

Based on prevalence data for this profession. Each links to a specific resource on Typical Male.

Licensure / fitness-for-duty — what's real and what's myth

No licensure issues. Main concern: immigration visa status — check with an immigration attorney if worried about Green Card or H-1B implications (most mental health treatment has no impact).

Free tool
Not sure what's going on?

The PHQ-9 + GAD-7 screeners your doctor uses. Private. Printable for your appointment. Tracks over time.

Take the PHQ-9 →