In our mental health training for managers, we’ve encountered countless managers grappling with the fear of discussing their team members’ mental health. Interestingly, when asked how they think they might exacerbate the situation, many struggle to articulate concrete reasons—a testament to the irrationality of fear.
The truth is, that discussing mental health with a team member rarely worsens their condition. However, it presents an opportunity to offer support and alleviate their struggles.
It’s crucial to clarify that managers aren’t expected to play the role of a therapist. Our mental health training for managers emphasises this point, urging managers to find the balance between providing support and maintaining professional boundaries. This revelation often comes as a relief to managers who feel pressured to find instant solutions.
Your Greatest Tool: Listening
Amidst the myriad of conversations managers engage in daily, the ability to listen emerges as their most potent tool for supporting their team’s mental well-being. Despite navigating discussions on targets, sales, and performance effortlessly, addressing mental health can trigger feelings of discomfort, especially without adequate training.
As mental health therapists, we emphasise the power of listening in our mental health training for managers. While a conversation may not alleviate the condition itself, the act of attentive listening fosters understanding and empathy, creating a safe space for employees to share their struggles.
Think back to a time when someone listened to you wholeheartedly. Recall how it felt to be heard, understood, and cared for. This is the essence of what employees seek—an opportunity to express themselves without judgment or fear.
In a world preoccupied with busyness, genuine listening is a rare commodity. That’s why we stress its importance to managers. By mastering the art of listening, managers not only enhance their leadership skills but also cultivate deeper connections with their team members.
Our mental health training for managers covers listening skills extensively, offering managers practical exercises to hone this essential skill. The feedback we receive underscores its impact, with managers reporting improvements not only in their professional roles but also in their personal relationships.
“Since the training we have received a number of great testimonials from our managers stating how it is one of the best training offerings they have been part of and how useful this will be in their roles. Both Nicky and Sara are exceptional facilitators, dynamic, empathetic and informative and our managers remained engaged throughout the sessions. We believe in its value and the positive impact on a personal level some managers have said that it has had that we committed to 6 monthly sessions for all managers in development programmes and external candidates that we hire.”
– Stephen Prendergast, Head of HR, Sofology
Remember, avoiding the conversation is what exacerbates the situation. By embracing open dialogue and actively listening to their team members, managers can foster an environment of trust, support, and well-being.
Ready to unlock the potential of your team through mental health training for managers? Get in touch
Sara Maude, a seasoned Solution Focused Psychotherapist, Transformational Coach, Hypnotherapist, and EFT Practitioner, brings over a decade of mental health expertise to global organisations. She specialises in workplace wellbeing training, employee health and wellbeing programs and mental health training for managers. Sara’s proficiency also extends to wellbeing consultancy and wellbeing strategy, contributing significantly to the enhancement of employee wellbeing in the workplace.