The world has changed in ways none of us could have envisioned. Global stressors such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, combined with a two-and-a-half-year pandemic, have deeply touched our lives and Mental Healths. Stress levels have hit alarming rates, and the American Psychological Association echoed what so many of us are feeling—the private or stigmatized mental health struggles have turned into one shared crisis.
The pandemic’s effects on mental health have illuminated a deeper, often hidden issue—one that I’ve seen firsthand. My mother faced significant mental health struggles but couldn’t access the care she desperately needed. Tragically, she took her own life. This personal experience has driven my commitment to expanding access to mental health services for everyone.
Why Transparency About Mental Health Matters
We learn that the long-term consequences of social isolation and uncertainty mean more and more individuals are coming forward with mental health concerns. The stigma of mental illness has lessened, but our collective needs for mental health services have grown exponentially. Suicide now ranks among the top causes of death in the United States, with nearly 46,000 people dying by suicide in 2020 alone.
But this isn’t just a public health issue; it’s a business issue, too. And employers can help shift how mental health is viewed in the workplace. As business leaders, we can’t afford to be concerned with only one aspect—the bottom line. We need to make sure we’re fostering an environment where mental health is seen as part of overall health and is baked into the culture of our companies.
Business leaders today have a unique opportunity to foster a workplace culture that prioritizes mental health, integrating it as an essential part of overall well-being. Leadership plays a pivotal role in setting the tone for how mental health is perceived and addressed within an organization. When leaders demonstrate transparency by openly discussing their own mental health experiences, it normalizes such conversations, encourages openness, and builds trust within teams. This environment empowers employees to seek help and utilize resources without fear of stigma. Programs like CVS Health’s “Resources for Living,” which supports employees and their families, highlight how access to comprehensive mental health support can make a tangible difference.
Moreover, the expansion of mental health care access, particularly through virtual services, has proven vital in recent years. For example, CVS Health witnessed a dramatic increase in virtual mental health visits, from 20,000 annually pre-pandemic to 20 million by 2021. Businesses, regardless of their sector, should invest in providing mental health resources, including virtual consultations. Training programs such as “Mental Health First Aid” or “Talk Saves Lives” offer organizations the tools to raise awareness, recognize mental health challenges early, and respond effectively. Such initiatives cultivate a culture of care and equip employees with the knowledge needed to support themselves and their colleagues.
Fostering Mental Well-being at Work
Peer support within the workplace also plays a crucial role in fostering a positive mental health environment. Employees often serve as powerful advocates, creating a support network that is both relatable and accessible. At CVS Health, initiatives like colleague support groups and resource guides for managers ensure that employees and leaders alike are prepared to address mental health challenges. Sharing personal stories on internal platforms not only breaks the silence around mental health issues but also inspires others to prioritize their well-being. This sense of shared experience creates a workplace where every individual feels valued and empowered.
Finally, awareness alone is not enough; it must be translated into action. Businesses must commit to making mental health a sustained priority rather than an occasional topic of conversation. By creating policies, resources, and workplace cultures that prioritize mental well-being, organizations can enable employees to thrive. This proactive approach benefits not just the individual but also the organization as a whole, fostering a more engaged, loyal, and productive workforce.
In an era where mental health challenges are increasingly prevalent, business leaders must rise to the occasion. Through transparency, access, peer support, and actionable strategies, they can redefine workplace mental health and demonstrate a genuine commitment to the well-being of their teams.
It took a pandemic to bring home the need to address our minds, but it is now in our hands to ensure we keep breaking barriers to care. It remains up to us as leaders to change the narrative surrounding workplace mental health. Now is the time to wear this mantle of responsibility with full action and show the world we care about our mental well-being.
