Mental Health and the Workplace

We do our best work when we can bring our full selves to the job. When we feel comfortable taking risks and making mistakes without fear of humiliation or punishment, we’re more likely to find satisfaction at work and—in turn—to perform better. These ideas are central to the concept of psychological safety, and fostering that safety is key in building a productive, fulfilling work environment. Join us to gain a detailed understanding of psychological safety at work: what it looks like, why it matters, and how to facilitate it. We’ll discuss how individuals within various levels in an organization’s structure can contribute, how to address psychologically unsafe environments, and how a DEI-informed approach can support an organization’s goals around inclusivity.

In the vast spectrum of leadership styles, one particular approach stands out for its emphasis on understanding and acknowledging diverse viewpoints. This style is characterized by its adaptability and flexibility. Leaders who embrace this approach actively engage in listening to gain insight and inspire others to follow suit. At the heart of this servant leadership style lies empathy. It’s an art form to convey to your team that you value them as individuals, all while maintaining a keen focus on the organization’s success. Studies suggest that empathy is a skill that can be honed and is beneficial to all. The practice of empathy entails understanding its cultivation, its influence on your team, and how to express it without seeming insincere or weak. Displaying and practicing empathy is a testament to your respect for your team, a defining trait of dedicated leaders. We cordially invite you to join us as we engage with a panel of esteemed leaders. They will share their insights on how they integrate empathy into their staff’s skill set, drive change, and foster a culture of empathy within their teams.

In an era when the significance of mental health is gaining widespread recognition, cultivating an environment of awareness and support within organizations is imperative. This Society for Scholarly Publishing (SSP) webinar, titled "Nurturing Minds: Fostering Mental Health Awareness and Organizational Support," delves into the critical intersection of mental health and the workplace, with a particular focus on the scholarly publishing community. The session is part of the SSP initiative introduced in this Scholarly Kitchen post by SSP President Randy Townsend last fall. This the first in a series of free webinars being developed by a subcommittee of the SSP Mental Health Task Force. The session will open by addressing the prevalent stigmas surrounding mental health, shedding light on the importance of understanding and dismantling these barriers within the professional sphere. Participants will gain insights into the multifaceted nature of mental health challenges and their impact on overall well-being and workplace dynamics. An exploration of organizational resources and strategies will follow, emphasizing the role of employers in creating a supportive ecosystem. The webinar will showcase various initiatives, from employee assistance programs to mental health awareness campaigns, designed to cultivate an inclusive, supportive workplace culture that prioritizes mental well-being. Additional information about the SSP Mental Health Awareness initiative can be found on the SSP website.