A Shifting Landscape: Mental Health in the Workplace

By:

Clarence E. Anthony

July 24, 2024 - (2 min read)

Health & Wellness

Co-authored by Georges Benjamin, MD, Executive Director, American Public Health Association
Arthur Evans, CEO and Executive Vice President, American Psychological Association
Susan McCormick, President and CEO, YMCA of the USA
Marc Ott, CEO/Executive Director of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA)

Two years ago, the five of us launched an ambitious initiative to increase awareness about the importance of healthy workplaces. The “Striving for Mental Health Excellence in the Workplace,” campaign has been integral to our collective mission of reshaping the dialogue surrounding mental health in professional environments.

The result: More than 275 organizations from 20 countries across the globe committed to strengthening mental health policies for employees and fostering a healthier workplace. The combined effort has led to some remarkable milestones. Among them:

Over 75 cities and counties, 100 nonprofit organizations, and 50 companies made the commitment.
We worked with partners like the National Safety Council and the Kennedy Forum to connect these organizations to experts and share resources.

Since we began our focus in this space, we have seen a positive shift across industries toward open and transparent conversations about mental health in the workplace. We know that mental health support in the workplace isn’t just a perk, it’s a necessity. It’s about fostering an environment where employees can bring their whole selves to work and thrive both personally and professionally.

The progress that has been made in the mental health space has been underscored by significant societal milestones, such as the release of the Surgeon General’s Framework for Mental Health and Well-Being in the Workplace in October 2022.

“As leaders, we have a responsibility to foster environments where mental health is prioritized and supported. It’s not just about policies; it’s about creating a culture of empathy, understanding and resilience.”
– Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft

While we are closing out the formal program, we encourage organizations and leaders to continue this work. Here are a few resources to support your efforts: