Great Lakes Wire

Employees face ongoing exposure to negative news from various media sources, which can impact their mental health. Combined with work-related stress, this environment may leave workers feeling overwhelmed or disconnected. While comprehensive wellness programs are beneficial, smaller daily actions can also foster a supportive workplace.

One approach is to normalize discussions about mental health. Encouraging open dialogue and including mental health in leadership communications helps employees feel safer addressing these issues. Promoting flexible work options, such as adjusted start times or occasional remote days, can help staff balance personal and professional responsibilities.

Regular breaks are important for reducing burnout. Teams should be reminded that stepping away from the desk or taking a walk is healthy behavior. Training managers to recognize signs of struggle allows for early intervention and connection to resources.

Fostering social connections through low-cost activities like team coffee chats or walking meetings supports well-being. Sharing information about available resources—such as employee assistance programs (EAPs), wellness initiatives, or insurance benefits—ensures employees know where to seek help.

Respecting boundaries is another key practice; leaders are encouraged not to send non-urgent emails after hours and to empower employees to disconnect at the end of the workday. Recognizing heavy workloads by acknowledging team efforts can ease stress, while celebrating small wins boosts morale and reminds staff that their contributions matter.

Leadership plays a critical role in shaping a culture of care. Leaders who show empathy, listen actively, and support employees during challenges help create an environment where mental health is prioritized.

Heather Nezich wrote this article on behalf of ASE, an SBAM-approved partner.

"Supporting mental health doesn’t have to mean sweeping changes or costly programs. Small, intentional actions, especially in a world saturated with negative news, can build a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and able to bring their best selves to work."

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