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Nurturing Mental Health Culture in the Workplace: Insights from Jodi Brandstetter of Influence Network Media
In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environments, prioritizing employee mental health has become a critical aspect of fostering a healthy and productive workforce. With the rising prevalence of mental health issues, entrepreneurs and organizations are recognizing the need for proactive measures to identify, address, and support their employees’ well-being. To gain insights into effective strategies and initiatives, we reached out to a diverse group of entrepreneurs who have successfully implemented mental health awareness and support programs within their organizations. In this interview series, they share their experiences, challenges, and the positive impact these initiatives have had on their workplaces.
Name: Jodi Brandstetter
Company: Influence Network Media
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.
Jodi Brandstetter: A key strategy that all companies need to implement is training around mental health for people managers. Managers will be able to identify and address early signs of mental health issues. But most managers are not equipped to do so. As part of a new manager orientation or training, training around mental health, how to identify warning signs and how to provide support will equip managers to be advocates for their employees and their mental health.
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.
Jodi Brandstetter: If a company can identify individuals who can be advocates for their employees and their mental health, this can build a supportive environment. These individuals need to have the tools and resources to help employees. I would suggest someone in HR have these tools.
During my time at a large corporation, an employee called HR asking for assistance around mental health. He was having suicidal thoughts and concerned about driving to work. This can be scary for the employee and the individual in HR.
Since I have been actively going to therapy and had a psychiatrist, the HR person asked me what to do. I was able to guide my colleague to the steps to help this employee. And provide a reference to a therapist and psychiatrist. This was not proactive but saved a life; gave him tools to help and he knew he was not alone.
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.
Jodi Brandstetter: The most impactful trainings will be facilitated by individuals who handle mental health issues like therapists and psychiatrists. Ask specialist in different areas of mental health to provide training to your team members. And ensure that this training is in a variety of formats from live, virtual and on-demand. Mental health is still a hush conversation and individuals may not feel comfortable learning in an open environment.
Jed Morley, VIP Contributor to WellnessVoice and the host of this interview would like to thank Jodi Brandstetter 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 Jodi Brandstetter or her company, you can do it through her – Linkedin Page
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