In today’s world, conversations about mental health are becoming more visible, with public figures like Lizzo, Ariana Grande, and Jonathan Van Ness openly sharing their struggles with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges1. These revelations have played a crucial role in breaking down societal stigma, showing that vulnerability can indeed coexist with success.
However, the corporate world has lagged in fostering the same openness. While nearly 60% of U.S. employees report experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition in the past year, most have never spoken about their struggles at work1 – hesitancy that is amplified in leadership, where societal expectations often associate roles of authority with resilience, intelligence, and composure2-3.
Drawing on implicit leadership theories, one study proposed that people expect leaders to experience better mental health than others that occupy more organisational roles2. This perception is rooted in the belief that leaders possess attributes like intelligence and sensitivity, alongside behaviours such as charisma and decisiveness2-4 which act to protect them from living with mental health conditions.
Leadership has the power to redefine workplace culture – leaders are the equivalent of celebrity influencers in the corporate world1. When business leaders embrace transparency about their mental health, they pave the way for employees to feel supported and understood. Leaders hold a unique influence akin to that of public figures in society. By sharing their experiences both publicly and within their organisations, they can normalise mental health conversations and inspire cultural change1.
Transparency in leadership mental health
For too long, the workplace has perpetuated the misconception that effective leaders must appear infallible to instil confidence in their teams and stakeholders1. Persistent stereotypes about mental health conditions only amplify this pressure, making it feel unsafe for leaders to openly discuss their challenges1. As Jason Saltzman, founder of Alley, explained; when trying to raise capital, build a team, and instil confidence, even the slightest vulnerability can seem like a risk to credibility1.
However, leaders who embrace transparency around mental health are transforming this narrative. By leading by example, they demonstrate that vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength. Sharing their experiences reduces stigma, creating a ripple effect that normalises discussions and encourages employees to seek support1.
This cultural shift is gaining momentum. Leaders who prioritise mental health catalyse change not only within their organisations but also externally, inspiring others in the business community to follow suit1. According to recent reports in The New York Times and Reuters, organisations fostering openness from the C-suite downward are the most effective in supporting employee mental health5.
When leaders model open dialogue and prioritise mental wellbeing, they cultivate a workplace culture of empathy and trust. This reduces the fear of judgment, enabling employees to feel valued, supported, and empowered to address their mental health concerns without hesitation.
The ripple effect: better workplace wellbeing and performance
Leadership transparency around mental health has far-reaching effects, transforming not just workplace culture but also organisational performance. When leaders normalise conversations about mental health, employees feel valued and supported, leading to improved wellbeing and reduced burnout. This supportive culture fosters resilience, creativity, and motivation among staff, strengthening the workforce and enhancing overall productivity6.
The business case for prioritising mental health in the workplace is clear. High employee turnover is costly, both financially and operationally. Organisations with strong mental health initiatives see higher retention rates as employees who feel supported are more likely to remain loyal and engaged6. Research consistently shows that workplaces that prioritise employee mental health experience greater job satisfaction and a reduction in burnout, creating a more harmonious and effective working environment6.
Moreover, studies highlight how mental health-friendly workplaces unlock employee potential, fostering innovation and problem-solving abilities7-8. By investing in mental health benefits, organisations are not only supporting their teams but also driving their own success.
Creating a workplace culture where mental health is prioritised is about reducing stigma and enhancing the quality of work life, improving employee satisfaction, and achieving sustainable growth.
Steps leaders can take to model mental health prioritisation
Leaders set the tone for workplace culture, and prioritising mental health is no exception. By implementing practical strategies, they can foster a supportive environment that benefits both employees and the organisation as a whole.
Start by setting boundaries and promoting work-life balance – leaders who model healthy behaviours encourage their teams to follow suit. Create safe spaces where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health concerns without fear of judgement. Simple initiatives, such as regular check-ins or offering Employee Assistance Programs, can go a long way in building trust and support6.
Introduce policies like flexible working hours, stress management workshops, and mindfulness training to proactively support employees’ mental wellbeing. These programs not only reduce burnout but also contribute to a more engaged and productive workforce6.
Finally, prioritising your own mental health demonstrates sustainable, resilient leadership. When leaders openly care for their wellbeing, they empower their teams to do the same, creating a ripple effect of positivity and balance throughout the organisation.
Reflecting on leadership’s role in mental health
Leadership is pivotal in shaping workplace culture, and transparency about mental health challenges can be transformative. By breaking down stigma, leaders pave the way for open dialogue, fostering an environment where employees feel valued and supported.
The long-term benefits of prioritising mental health in the workplace extend beyond individual wellbeing. Organisations that embrace these values often see improved retention, increased productivity, and stronger team cohesion.
As leaders continue to model sustainable behaviours and champion employee wellbeing strategies, they inspire cultural shifts that ripple across industries.
Get in touch today to explore how we can complement your private practice and enhance your patient’s path to fostering better mental health in the workplace.
References
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/mindsharepartners/2019/12/23/we-need-more-workplace-leaders-talking-about-their-own-mental-health-celebrity-stories-arent-enough/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10323984/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1048984313001069
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0030507384900436
- https://www.reuters.com/article/us-world-work-mentalhealth/culture-change-is-the-cutting-edge-of-mental-health-benefits-at-work-idUSKBN1XI196/
- https://nilohealth.com/blog/mental-health-benefits-for-employee-retention/
- https://www.creativitywakeup.com/blog/the-mental-well-being-and-creativity
- https://www.betterup.com/blog/mental-health-impedes-creativity
