Dr. Ronke Komolafe, founder of Advancing Behavioral Health, emphasizes the importance of leaders prioritizing mental health in the workplace. She believes that supporting mental health leads to improved employee performance, engagement, and overall organizational success. This can be achieved by creating a culture of openness, understanding, and support where employees feel safe to discuss their mental health challenges without fear of stigma or repercussion. Offering counseling services, promoting work-life integration, and more can help create a mentally healthy workplace.
To help leaders be proactive in addressing mental health issues in the workplace, Dr. Komolafe asked members of the Mental Health Group, a community she leads through Forbes Business Council, to share how they lead by example. Suggestions included expanding provider options to improve access to care, giving employees access to a gym and time to exercise, focusing on work-life integration to prevent burnout, and measuring fulfillment in different life categories to predict and prevent impactful events.
Additional strategies recommended by the Mental Health Group members included establishing ‘mindful connection’ programs to build resilience and foster open communication, as well as offering paid leave benefits to support employees during stressful times. By implementing these strategies, leaders can create a supportive environment where employees feel valued and can openly discuss mental health concerns. This can lead to increased morale, productivity, and overall well-being in the workplace.
Forbes Business Council, of which Dr. Komolafe is a member, is a growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. The council offers resources and opportunities for business leaders to connect and grow their businesses. Dr. Komolafe’s advocacy for mental health in the workplace aligns with the council’s mission to support and empower business leaders to achieve success. By prioritizing mental health, leaders can create a positive and thriving work environment for their employees, ultimately leading to improved business outcomes.
