Mental health is not just a personal issue; it’s a leadership imperative. In November 2023, I’m reflecting on how far we’ve come—and how far we still need to go—in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in leadership. Leaders often feel the need to project an image of unshakable strength, leaving little room for authenticity or acknowledgment of their mental well-being. However, some believe it is a "weakness" to acknowledge mental health.
True leadership requires courage. It means having the bravery to admit when we’re struggling and to model healthy behaviors for our teams. When leaders "walk the talk" of mental health, they create environments where employees feel safe to do the same. This is not about performative gestures or surface-level initiatives. It’s about fostering a culture where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health.
As we close out the year, let’s commit to having open conversations about mental health in the workplace. What steps can you take to prioritize your own well-being while leading your team with empathy and authenticity?