For workplaces and leaders

Simple things leaders can do

• Normalize it. Talk about mental health the way you would talk about physical health. When leaders are open, teams feel safer asking for help.
• Share what you have. Make sure people know about your EAP (Employee Assistance Program), your insurance's mental-health benefits, and free options like 988, and re-share them more than once.
• Be flexible where you can. Small accommodations (a schedule tweak, a lighter week, time for an appointment) make a real difference and signal that it is okay to take care of yourself.
• Know the signs. Withdrawal, irritability, exhaustion, or a drop in performance can signal someone is struggling. You do not have to diagnose; just check in kindly and point to support.
• Respond to crisis safely. If someone may be in danger, take it seriously: stay with them and help them reach 988 or 911. You are connecting them to help, not treating them.
• Model it. Take your own breaks, use your own benefits, set boundaries. Culture follows what leaders do.

A free link you can share with your team or group: mkementalhealth.com. It is education, not therapy, and it does not collect personal information, so it is safe to pass along.