Prioritizing Mental Health in Real Estate: Tools for REALTORS® to Manage Work Stress

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a timely reminder for REALTORS® to pause and reflect on their well-being. While real estate can be a deeply rewarding career, it also comes with unique stressors: market uncertainty, inventory challenges, and economic pressures. Even if you love what you do, it’s okay to admit: this job can be stressful.

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) recognizes the importance of mental health in the profession and provides a variety of resources to support members. Whether you’re struggling with burnout, anxiety, or simply need strategies to manage the daily grind, there are tools available to help.

Work-related stress is on the rise across industries, and real estate is no exception. Mental health challenges in the workplace continue to rise. According to the 2024 NAMI Workplace Mental Health Poll, more than half of employees reported feeling burned out in the past year because of their job, and 37% said they felt so overwhelmed it impacted their ability to work effectively.

For REALTORS®, whose careers are built around client relationships, unpredictable schedules, and constant availability, those pressures can feel even more intense.

The nature of the work—long hours, inconsistent income, and the pressure to always be available—can make it hard to set boundaries. Many agents are self-employed and wear multiple hats, which often leads to poor work-life balance and burnout.

The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies burnout as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that hasn’t been successfully managed. Common symptoms include:

• Physical and emotional exhaustion
• Cynicism or detachment from work
• Reduced professional efficacy

Left unaddressed, chronic stress and burnout can also affect your physical health. Research from Harvard University links unmanaged stress to conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and substance abuse.

The NAMI poll also found that while 74% of employees believe it’s appropriate to talk about mental health at work, only 58% actually feel comfortable sharing about their own mental health. Concerns about stigma, judgment, and workplace expectations still prevent many professionals from speaking openly when they need support.”

Mental Wellness Resources for REALTORS®

NAR's dedicated mental wellness hub provides a variety of tools, including:

• Stress management strategies
• Self-care techniques
• Access to mental health professionals through Members TeleHealth
• Suicide prevention hotlines by state
• Webinars and articles on mental health topics

Find Help When You Need It

If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out. NAR’s Member Assistance Program offers confidential counseling services and wellness resources tailored to REALTORS®.

In Iowa, a number of nonprofit and state health agencies offer services to help individuals access affordable mental health care. Use our interactive map below to explore mental health resources near you. 

You’re Not Alone

Creating a healthier career starts with recognizing that mental wellness is part of professional success. Whether that means setting stronger boundaries, taking time away from technology, connecting with peers, or seeking professional support, prioritizing your well-being is one of the most important investments you can make in yourself and your business.

Let this Mental Health Awareness Month be a reminder: taking care of yourself is not a luxury. It’s a necessity.