How One Manager Transformed Their Team by Focusing on Mental Health

A few years ago, I faced a challenge I never anticipated. One of my top-performing employees began missing deadlines, withdrawing from team discussions, and avoiding one-on-one check-ins. At first, I thought it was just the pressure of a high-stakes project, but as weeks passed, it became clear that something deeper was happening.

I wanted to help but felt completely out of my depth. What should I say? Would I cross a line? I was afraid that any attempt to intervene might make things worse. Eventually, my employee resigned, citing personal struggles. I couldn’t help but wonder if I could have supported them more and possibly prevented their departure.

That experience left a lasting impression on me. I realized that as a manager, I needed to be better equipped to support my team’s mental health. I started to educate myself on mental health in the workplace, learning how to recognize early signs of struggles and how to foster an environment where people felt safe and valued. The impact was transformative—not just for me, but for my entire team. Communication improved, collaboration flourished, and I saw a renewed sense of energy and engagement in the workplace. It wasn’t just about improving performance; it was about creating a workplace where people truly felt cared for.

Your Role in Shaping a Psychologically Safe Workplace

As managers, we play a pivotal role in creating a culture where employees feel secure, supported, and empowered. Psychological safety doesn’t just benefit individuals facing mental health challenges; it drives positive outcomes across the board. Teams that feel safe are more innovative, resilient, and productive.

This starts with small but meaningful actions. Observing changes in behavior, being available for open conversations, and fostering a culture of inclusivity are steps that any manager can take. It’s not about having all the answers or being a mental health professional—it’s about creating a space where employees feel seen and heard.

Building a Supportive Environment

Here are a few actionable steps you can take to start creating a psychologically safe workplace:

Model Inclusivity: As a leader, your actions set the tone. Show that you value everyone’s contributions and make it clear that mental health is a priority for the organization.

Listen Actively: Schedule regular check-ins with your team and create a space where they feel comfortable sharing their concerns. Active listening means being present and empathetic, without trying to immediately solve their problems.

Promote Education: Take the time to learn about common mental health challenges and how they manifest in the workplace. Share resources with your team and encourage a culture of ongoing learning.

Encourage Work-Life Balance: Be mindful of workloads and encourage your team to take breaks, use their vacation days, and establish boundaries to avoid burnout.

The Ripple Effect of Positive Leadership

When managers prioritize mental health, the ripple effect is profound. Employees feel more engaged and valued, teams collaborate more effectively, and overall workplace morale improves. More importantly, by taking these steps, you’re helping to reduce the stigma around mental health in professional settings, making it easier for others to seek the help they need.

Take the First Step Today

Think about your current approach to mental health in the workplace. What’s one small change you could make today to better support your team? Whether it’s scheduling a conversation, learning more about mental health, or simply leading by example, every step counts. The journey to a more supportive workplace begins with your commitment to act.

Gift Your Managers the Tools They Need

If you’re looking for a meaningful way to empower your leadership team, consider gifting them the tools to succeed. Equip your managers with the knowledge and skills to create a safe, inclusive, and productive workplace. Explore our Workplace Mental Health Training for Managers today and give your team the support they deserve.