Communication has the power to create workplaces where people feel comfortable to speak up about mental health challenges. But like Peter Parker’s uncle said, with great power comes great responsibility!


The language we use, the channels we choose, and authentic leadership all play a part in a communication mix that can either help people feel safe, or result perpetuating a culture where mental illness is seen as a weakness.


If we’re able to create safe spaces for brave conversations with our communication, it leads to greater employee engagement, loyalty to leaders and the organisation, and positions your business as a place where people feel valued.


While there are some big changes we can make at the group-wide level, it’s really the individual conversations that make a big difference, and can be the stepping stone for folks to seek the support they need - at work or outside of it. But that can be hard if you don’t know how, and don’t have the confidence to engage in these conversations. So, how do you start?

1. Make a plan and state the facts

   Talking about mental health can be challenging. So start off with a plan on what you’re looking to achieve and how you think you’ll do it.
   
   For example, you may be trying to convey to a colleague that you’ve noticed their emails have become less ‘like them’. So you’re wanting to check in and see how they are doing, and you’re thinking of doing it via an impromptu and informal Teams message so that they don’t feel ‘cornered’ in person. You might say something like, “Hey, I’ve noticed your emails have seemed a little off lately. I just wanted to check in and ask how you’re doing? Are you okay?”
   
   

2. Focus on the person, not the problem

   No matter who you’re conversing with, make sure the language you use is respectful and accepting. The messages you give need to be clear, positive and show that you see that person as an individual - not as the problems or conditions they are experiencing. 

   
   You might follow on with the above question with something like, “I understand that you’ve been under a lot of stress lately. How are you taking care of yourself through that? Is there anything I can do to help support you?”
   
   

3. Ask, don’t assume

   Whether you’re starting the conversation, or halfway through it, never assume the kind of help or support they may want, or what they may be feeling. Make sure to continually check in and ask. Remember that your role, inside and outside the workplace and regardless of hierarchy, is to support the person. 

   
   

   A way of doing this could be, “So you’ve mentioned that these specific tasks are becoming overwhelming. What do you think would make these easier to manage, and is there a way I could help you?”

No matter how you identify the need to speak up, it’s important to remember that everyone has their challenges! Be kind, be compassionate and take the time to communicate. You never know who may need it most.

Learn more about the power of communication in supporting mental health at work!

Listen to podcast episode 38, where we interviewed Cherie Canning, founder of Luminate Leadership, for more tips on using communication to create safe spaces for mental health conversations.