Dr. Ronke Komolafe, DBH., MBA, the founder of Advancing Behavioral Health, stresses the importance of prioritizing mental health in the workplace to improve employee performance, engagement, and overall organizational success. This involves creating a culture of openness, understanding, and support where employees feel safe discussing their mental health challenges without stigma. She also emphasizes the importance of offering counseling services and promoting work-life integration to support mental well-being.
To assist leaders in addressing mental health issues proactively, Dr. Komolafe reached out to members of the Mental Health Group, a community she leads through Forbes Business Council, to share their insights on how they lead by example. Suggestions include expanding provider options to improve access to care, giving employees access to a gym and time to exercise, focusing on work-life integration to prevent burnout, and measuring fulfillment in different life categories to detect impactful events early on.
Other strategies recommended by members of the Mental Health Group include establishing ‘Mindful Connection’ programs to encourage open discussions about mental health, offering paid leave benefits to support employees during stressful life events, and fostering open communication and empathy in the workplace. These initiatives aim to create a supportive environment where employees feel valued and supported, leading to improved morale and productivity within the organization.
Forbes Business Council, where Dr. Komolafe and the Mental Health Group are active members, is a prominent growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. The council provides a platform for professionals to share expertise, insights, and strategies to drive business success and promote overall well-being in the workplace. By prioritizing mental health and implementing these proactive strategies, leaders can create a positive work culture that supports the well-being of their employees and enhances organizational performance.
