07 February 2024
How Work Can Feel Unsafe For Mental Health
Leadership should include making sure everyone feels mentally safe. Here are some ways to do that:
- Leaders should build trust by really listening to their teams.
- Talking to team members to understand their worries, asking for their input, and finding out what makes them feel unsupported is crucial. Leaders need to give these conversations their full attention, away from the constant messages, emails, and meetings.
- Leaders should take an interest in what their teams are facing and give themselves time to think over these issues to respond well.
- Some workers, like those who are a different race or sexual orientation might feel even less supported because of their identity. Leaders need to see where bias happens and deal with it while making sure everyone is treated fairly. Putting a plan in place to fight bias and unfair treatment is very important.
- Leaders who don't show empathy or understanding can't create a trusting or inclusive atmosphere.
- Being transparent, meaning sharing what's going well and what's not, can stop rumours and make people feel important and part of the bigger goal.
- It's important to listen to different viewpoints and let everyone have a say. Leaders should make it easy for everyone to speak up, even those who are usually quiet or shy.
Everyone Plays a Part in Mental Safety
All of us can help make the workplace a safer place for mental health by supporting each other, speaking up freely, and stepping in when things aren't right, like in cases of bullying. Change begins with being humble, caring, and ready to grow and change.
Our common goal should be to create a place where everyone feels they belong, are connected, and have chances to succeed.
Consider our Diversity and Inclusion 2-day course or book a subject matter expert from Blazing Moon to address your company / team as per the duration you may require. Reach out to service@blazingmoon.co.za