How Leaders Can Squash Stress and Support Their Teams’ Mental Health

Uncertainty has held sway for the past two years, and as a result, workplace stress levels are growing. For employers looking to maintain productivity and decrease turnover, reducing the stress employees feel is critical. However, this feat is often easier said than done. How can leaders help their employees manage their stress levels and maintain their mental health? It’s important that leaders check in frequently with their employees, express appreciation for their hard work, and show understanding if they’re falling short. It’s important to know that stress is often a result of feeling unheard or out of control. Sometimes talking it out with an employee can help alleviate the worst of it, but in some cases, a conversation might not be enough. If you’re worried that an employee’s stress level is negatively impacting their health, or that they’re at risk of burning out, it might be beneficial to encourage them to take some PTO. Oftentimes employees are reluctant to take their vacation time, and a reminder from leadership that it’s perfectly acceptable to take a break can lead to better outcomes.