Breaking the Silence: Mental Health in the Workplace
Updated: Jun 11
As the founder of Raido Consultancy and with nearly two decades in the marketing world, I have navigated my fair share of ups and downs. My journey took me through the halls of large corporations, the boardrooms of innovative startups, and the heart of nonprofits dedicated to serving underrepresented communities. Outside of my marketing work, I have been in and out of recording studios and performed music in seven countries across two continents.
Throughout this time, I learned that mental health is a crucial part of our professional and personal lives—a lesson I learned the hard way through my own experiences.
My Journey with Mental Health
Early in my adult life, blending my personal and professional pursuits was a struggle. The long hours, tight deadlines, and high stakes were constant companions. I did not know how to properly communicate what was becoming a daily struggle. I did not have an adequate outlet. The stress and pressure began to take a toll, manifesting as anxiety and depression. This struggle would, at times, consume aspects of my life and I became disillusioned with the world. And, perhaps worst of all, I felt my creativity waning. Like many, I feared that admitting my struggles would be seen as a weakness. The stigma surrounding mental health kept me silent, so I pushed through, hoping things would improve on their own.
Eventually, my life underwent some significant changes that, though difficult, were ultimately for the better. This evolution made me feel more comfortable talking and working through any issues I was experiencing. It also helped that I now had a supportive spouse willing to discuss mental health. I am not ashamed to say that I began attending counseling sessions, and this really was a turning point for me. The experience not only helped me manage my mental health but also opened my eyes to the significance of creating a supportive environment for others.
The Professional Impact of Mental Health
In the marketing industry, mental health issues can be particularly challenging. The fear of judgment or discrimination often leads individuals to hide their struggles, which can have serious consequences. During my tenure at a variety of organizations, I witnessed talented colleagues become disengaged, their performance dropped, and some even left their positions. I also encountered individuals, that for whatever reason, were indifferent or even callous toward co-workers and their inherent struggles, which actively created an unhealthy environment. It became clear that ignoring mental health was detrimental to both individuals and the organization as a whole.
When I founded Raido Consultancy, I made a commitment to prioritize mental health. I started by sharing my own story. This vulnerability fostered a culture of acceptance and support. The response was overwhelmingly positive. By being open about my previous struggles, I encouraged others to share their experiences, creating a network of support and understanding.
Building a Supportive Environment
Creating a supportive work environment involves more than just open dialogue. It requires a commitment to providing the necessary resources and fostering a culture where mental health is prioritized. Each day, I work to integrate several techniques to support mental health, both for myself and in my collaborations.
One of the most effective strategies was integrating mindfulness and creative outlets into my routine. Engaging in creative activities such as writing and music provided a much-needed emotional release. These activities helped reduce stress and sparked innovation and creativity, which are crucial in many ways.
Flexible work arrangements also played a significant role. Recognizing that everyone has different needs when it comes to managing their mental health, I ensure that my consultancy offers flexibility. This approach is not just about accommodating mental health needs but about fostering a healthier and more inclusive work environment.
The Role of Leadership in Mental Health Advocacy
As a leader, I understood that my actions set the tone for the entire practice. In recent roles at organizations like The Mission Continues and the American Heart Association, by prioritizing my own mental health and demonstrating a healthy work-life balance, I could lead by example. This meant being transparent about taking mental health days, participating in counseling, and openly discussing the importance of self-care. These actions helped normalize the conversation around mental health and encouraged my teams to do the same. It also meant that I knew my limits and when to say "enough."
Creating a positive work environment also involved recognizing and addressing the specific needs of colleagues, clients and partners. Regular check-ins and open communication became staples in my work. These practices provided a safe space for discussing concerns and seeking support, fostering stronger, more authentic relationships.
Building a Community of Support
One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey has been seeing the ripple effect of these efforts. As I built a more supportive and open culture within my own work with Raido Consultancy, I also started to see positive changes in my relationships. Colleagues appreciated the commitment to mental health, and many shared their own stories and initiatives, either in person or on social media. This fostered stronger connections and opened the door to collaborations that were not only professionally rewarding but also personally meaningful.
Each of us has a role to play in creating a positive space for others. Listening with empathy, offering support, and being mindful of our language are simple yet powerful ways to make a difference. By advocating for mental health awareness and support within our organizations and communities, we can help break down the barriers that keep people from seeking the help they need.
Mental Health Awareness... Beyond May
As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, remember that the conversation around mental health doesn’t end here. It's an ongoing journey that requires commitment and compassion. By sharing our stories, supporting one another, and creating inclusive work environments, we can make a significant impact on the well-being of those around us.
I have written this piece from my own perspective and regarding the small swath of the professional landscape that I have some sort of control over, i.e. my work with Raido Consultancy. In this space, I am dedicated to fostering a culture where mental health is prioritized and stigmas are challenged. This journey has not only made me stronger as an individual but also as a professional. Together, we can build workplaces where everyone feels valued, understood, and empowered to bring their best selves to work every day.
So, the challenge I will put forth for all of us is to continue to break the silence and embrace mental health in the workplace, not just for the month of May, but every day.
