How to Support Leaders in Prioritising Mental Health and Wellbeing

Mental health often takes a backseat in high-pressure leadership roles, yet it’s essential for maintaining effective leadership and personal wellbeing. During Mental Health Awareness Week, we focus on those at the helm—encouraging colleagues, family members, and partners who see these leaders daily to recognise signs of mental strain and to feel equipped to initiate conversations about mental health. This blog explores how to approach these discussions with empathy and understanding, ensuring leaders feel supported rather than isolated.

The Role of Observers in Leader Wellbeing

Leaders, tasked with steering their organisations or families, often feel the need to portray strength continuously. This pressure can make it challenging for them to express vulnerabilities or seek help. Colleagues, family members, and partners are uniquely positioned to notice subtle changes that might indicate mental distress. Being observant and sensitive to these changes can make a significant difference in addressing mental health proactively.

Identifying Early Signs of Mental Health Struggles in Leaders

Recognising the early signs of mental health issues is the first step in providing support. These signs can often be subtle, especially in individuals who have become adept at maintaining a composed exterior. Symptoms to watch for include:

• Changes in Behaviour: Increased irritability, indecisiveness, or a noticeable decline in communication can be early warning signs.
• Physical Symptoms: Frequent headaches, noticeable weight changes, or a decline in personal grooming can indicate underlying stress or anxiety.
• Emotional Signs: Look for expressions of hopelessness, frequent frustration, or mentions of being overwhelmed, which can signal mental health declines.

Effective Strategies for Initiating Mental Health Conversations

Starting a conversation about mental health requires tact, empathy, and timing. Here are revised examples of conversation starters that suit a more personal interaction, fostering a supportive and understanding environment:

1. When enjoying relaxed, informal moments:
   • “I’ve been thinking about how we all juggle our commitments. How do you feel you’re handling the balance between work and personal time?”
   • “We rarely get a chance to unwind. What’s something you wish you could do more often to relax?”
2. Observing changes in behaviour or mood:
   • “I’ve noticed you seem a bit more tired than usual. Is everything okay at work, or is there something else on your mind?”
   • “Lately, I feel like you’ve been under a lot of pressure. It’s completely okay to share if you’re feeling overwhelmed, I’m here to listen.”
3. During family dinners or casual catch-ups:
   • “It’s great to catch up like this. Besides work, what’s been on your mind these days?”
   • “We talk about day-to-day stuff a lot, but let’s check in on each other more deeply. How have you been really feeling these days?”
4. Offering support as a partner or close friend:
   • “I want to make sure you know that I’m here for you, not just for the good times but also when things get tough. What can I do to help you feel more supported?”
   • “If things get overwhelming, remember I’m just a chat away. Have you thought about ways we can make things easier for you?”
5. Encouraging discussions about professional help:
   • “I read about how talking to someone can really make a difference when feeling stressed. Maybe it could be helpful for us to look into it together?”
   • “It’s okay to need support outside our circle too. If you think talking to a professional might help, I’d be happy to help you find the right person.”

Final Thoughts

Mental Health Awareness Week is an opportune time to reaffirm our commitment to the mental wellbeing of leaders. By staying observant, engaging in open conversations, and providing non-judgmental support, colleagues, family members, and partners can play a crucial role in helping leaders manage their mental health. Remember, a simple conversation can be the lifeline a leader needs to begin their journey toward better mental wellbeing.