In the modern corporate landscape, success is no longer defined solely by financial metrics. A new paradigm is emerging, one that recognizes the pivotal role of mental health and well-being in shaping vibrant, productive workplaces. Welcome to a thought-provoking interview series that transcends conventional business discussions.
This series delves deep into conversations with enterprising entrepreneurs who have set their sights on building organizations that prioritize the mental health of their employees. We delve into strategies, experiences, and revelations that have empowered these leaders to take a holistic approach to workplace dynamics.
Name: Alla Weinberg
Company: Spoke & Wheel
Check out more interviews with entrepreneurs here.
Table of Contents
What are some key strategies for organizations to identify and address early signs of mental health issues among employees? Share your insights and experiences on implementing proactive measures.
Alla Weinberg: There are a couple of ways for organizations to identify and address early sign of mental health issues:
1) Everyone in the organization needs to be trained in mental health first aid so that people can identify mental health issues in themselves and others
2) The organization need to regularly run psychologically safe team health assessments, as the interpersonal dynamics on a team have a huge impact on individual mental health. It’s important to make sure that assessment itself does not cause more harm, but rather works to increase psychological safety on the team.
How can companies create a supportive environment for employees to openly discuss mental health and seek help when needed? Share examples of successful communication and resources that have made a difference in your organization.
Alla Weinberg: The number one way for companies to create a support environment is to create a psychologically safe one. This requires investing in helping people create interpersonal connection so that they can feel safe (instead of fearful) in discussing their mental health challenges.
Creating intentional meeting rituals, such as sharing our emotional states at the beginning of a meeting; or our hopes and fears when on a project has really helped normalize and ritualize talking about emotions.
Amy Edmondson is the researcher that coined the term psychological safety and is a great resource.
What role can training and education play in fostering mental health awareness in the workplace? Share your experience with impactful workshops, seminars, or training programs that have contributed to a better understanding and support of mental health among employees.
Alla Weinberg: I have personally used education around our nervous system, polyvagal theory, and trauma to help people understand how mental health is connected to our body and help people begin to gain self-awareness. Awareness and understanding how our body works is itself a first step to healing.
Jed Morley, VIP Contributor to WellnessVoice and the host of this interview would like to thank Alla Weinberg for taking the time to do this interview and share her knowledge and experience with our readers.
If you would like to get in touch with Alla Weinberg or her company, you can do it through her – Linkedin Page
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