October 10th marks World Mental Health Day, which stands as a critical reminder of the importance of mental health as an essential part of our overall well-being. According to the World Health Organization, World Mental Health Day’s objective is “… to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health.” Each year this day serves as a call to action, challenging us to take steps to prioritize mental health—not just for ourselves, but within our workplaces, communities, and families.
Let’s start with the basics: What is “mental health”?
The World Health Organization defines mental health as “a state of mental well-being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.” Despite its foundational role in every aspect of our lives, mental health is often overlooked or treated as secondary to physical health. This oversight has profound consequences on productivity, relationships, and overall quality of life.
As leaders and organizations, it’s important to recognize that addressing mental health in a proactive, supportive way can lead to better outcomes for everyone. When workplaces make mental health a priority, they create environments where employees feel empowered, supported, and more likely to seek help when they need it. According to a 2021 narrative review, “In addition to improving worker health, access to high-quality mental health services is also associated with positive organizational outcomes. For example, the treatment of depression has been shown to result in about a 40% to 60% reduction in absenteeism/presenteeism.”
What can we do?
This World Mental Health Day, we encourage you to think about ways you can make mental health a focus in your life and organization. Here are a few steps to get started:
- Foster open dialogue: Encourage conversations around mental health and make it clear that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. Leadership can set the tone by discussing their own experiences or by actively supporting mental health initiatives.
- Review your resources: Evaluate whether your organization is equipped with adequate mental health support. This could look like conducting interviews or a survey along with your personal research. Consider programs that offer employees access to mental health professionals, wellness programs, and resources such as an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
- Promote work-life balance: When our work centers on causes we care deeply about, long hours, high demands, and burnout can take a toll on mental health. Ensure that employees have access to time off, flexibility, and resources that support a balanced lifestyle. Encourage and celebrate when these benefits are utilized. If they are in place but not being used, try to understand what is preventing access.
This October, we are committed to continuing the conversation around mental health, reducing stigma, and ensuring that our community is equipped with the tools and resources they need to thrive. World Mental Health Day is just one day, but it acts as a strong reminder of practices we can be championing all year long. Together, we can create a world where mental health is prioritized in every part of our lives.
