November is Men’s Mental Health Month in the US
It’s great to get back into the rhythm of in-person keynotes and workshops related to Your Oxygen Mask First. Having real conversations with successful CEOs, entrepreneurs and executives about mental health and the struggles that we all face, is always an amazing experience – and I appreciate the leaders who come up afterwards to share their stories with me. That’s not always easy or comfortable to do.
Whether virtually or live, I love opening that conversation so that when – not if – people hit a mental rough patch, it’s easier to talk, reach out and get help. There’s comfort in knowing they’re not the only one and struggles don’t need to be kept secret.
Talk about mental health and resilience
Most successful entrepreneurs and leaders I work with seek help when they need to.
If someone’s mind or spirit is broken from too much stress, pressure or pain, it’s critical to talk about it (as uncomfortable as it may be) and get professional help.
It’s funny that there’s no shame or judgement about going to a doctor if we’re physically ill, the dentist to fix our teeth, or a gym to make our body fitter. Yet, there’s a societal stigma about people who need help to make their minds stronger and healthier.
So, after these sessions, I find it exciting to see leaders go back and share their stories with their teams, making it easier for others to open up. We must make sure that mental health and personal resilience is a part of the conversation in your company.
Did you know?
Since it’s Men’s Mental Health Month in the US, here are some facts:
- Over 6,000,000 men suffer from depression each year.
- Male depression often goes undiagnosed.
- Men are more likely to report fatigue, irritability, loss of interest in work or hobbies, rather than feelings of sadness or worthlessness.
- More than 4 times as many men as women die by suicide in the U.S.
- Approximately 1 in 5 men develop alcohol dependency during their lives.
-Mental Health America
- 6 out of 10 executives and board members who suffered mental ill-health during the COVID pandemic turned to potentially unhealthy coping mechanisms such as alcohol and gambling instead of seeking help.
- Over 80% of business leaders surveyed showed symptoms such as fatigue, low motivation, mood swings, and sleep difficulties.
-Executive Wellbeing Index in 2021, BUPA/The Corporate Governor’s Institute
The American Heart Association estimates that, by 2030,
mental health issues will cost companies $6.1 trillion annually.
As I talk about in Your Oxygen Mask First (Chapter 7, Manage Your Mental Health) this Mental Health Continuum model is very helpful to assess how you and others around you are doing:
Image Source: BC Emergency Health Services
The Challenge
- What are you going to do to help make mental health a priority in your world – for yourself, your family and your team?
If you want to open the conversation in your organization with an all-company workshop or keynote, virtually or in person – or for an industry event – please let me know.
Additional Podcasts
Leadership & Mental Health During COVID 19
Additional Blogs
Managing Your Mental Health in Turbulent Times
Is Mental & Emotional Health a Priority in Your Boardroom?
The Psychological Price of Entrepreneurship
Lawrence & Co’s work focuses on sustainable and enhanced growth for you and your business. Our diverse and experienced group of advisors can help your leaders and executive teams stay competitive through the use of various learning tools including workshops, webinars, executive retreats, or one-to-one coaching.
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