How do we create compassionate organizations of mental health and trauma-informed awareness and support if we don’t recognize these challenges the same way we see a death in someone’s family or a broken arm following a bike accident? Not only do we miss the subtle cues, but also in many organizational cultures and executive suites, mental health and trauma-sensitive issues still carry a stigma. While many leaders are taking steps to normalize the presence of mental health challenges, many employees keep quiet about their own situations and are reluctant to disclose their situation. So long as this cloak of invisibility prevails, we cannot address the root causes, create truly welcoming environments, and provide the necessary support for those who need it.
We are all touched by mental health issues.
Mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders have always been extensively present in our human community, with pre-COVID estimates that one in eight of us experienced symptoms at any given time. The social disruption from COVID has made things much worse. According to the CDC, (as well as a number of other confirming studies) rates of anxiety and depression – as well as other mental health concerns - increased significantly in 2020, with anxiety rates tripling (25.5% vs 8.1%) and depression rates nearly quadrupling (24.3% vs. 6.5%) from the prior year. Many would argue that the prevalence of mental health issues is much higher, and that systemic underreporting does injustice to the true scope of the human challenge in our modern society.
Estimates of the economic cost of depression and related concerns due to absenteeism and reduced productivity while at work exceed $100 billion in the United States alone. This figure does not include the medical costs of these mental health issues, a figure which is comparable in magnitude to the workplace costs. And, of course, neither medical nor economic costs take into account the most costly aspect of all – the human cost. These figures are also pre-COVID, so current costs are likely significantly higher.
Focus on human relationships first.
It is our managerial tendency to focus on what can be measured. Given the significant economic cost of mental health issues in the workplace, it is understandable that the impact of these issues on the bottom line receives as much attention as it does. The success and sustainability of organizations is a requirement, and the way to achieve that success is by starting with the human aspects. Starting with business deliverables runs the risk of adding stress to an already highly stressed situation and backfiring from both an economic and human point of view.
Instead, start by focusing on the needs of your team. Take time to understand each individual and their unique make-up. When your team members feel safe and trusting, they will respond in ways that benefit creativity, productivity, and their relationship with you and each other.
The question isn’t an either/or “Do I focus on helping with the mental health issues or do I focus on the bottom line?” A compassionate leader is aware of the individual and organizational challenges created by mental health concerns, and responds with empathic understanding and compassionate actions that both ease the suffering and advance organizational objectives.
Create an environment of support and care.
While employee assistance programs and health care insurance are important elements in helping provide treatment for those who need it, the organizational culture you create is an equally important element to help prevent the arising of problems.
Psychological safety, a culture of belonging for all, compassionate communication skills, and trauma-informed leadership all help to create a flourishing environment and reduce the stressors that prey on our wellbeing. With respect to mental health itself, it is important to clearly acknowledge your wholehearted support for all needed care. Leaders must step up to destigmatize mental health issues and champion support solutions and culture change.
In Closing…
Yes, it is incredibly hard for us to face and heal the issues surrounding mental health. Know that sometimes we all struggle. Know that sometimes we all feel joy. Know that this is the time to courageously bring compassion into your life and leadership. We will all benefit.