Supporting Employees Through Life’s Challenges: Mental Health Resources at Work
In today’s fast-paced world, the well-being of employees during significant life changes is more critical than ever. Insights from a VP of Market Operations and a CEO highlight the importance of corporate support systems. The article features eight key strategies, starting with a no-questions-asked leave program and concluding with creating a space for emotional support. Discover how these approaches can foster a supportive workplace culture.
- Implement a No-Questions-Asked Leave Program
- Establish a Comprehensive Employee-Assistance Program
- Offer a Life-Change Sabbatical
- Foster an Open and Empathetic Environment
- Adjust Expectations and Respect Privacy
- Provide Flexible Work Schedules
- Take a Personalized and Intimate Approach
- Create a Space for Emotional Support
Implement a No-Questions-Asked Leave Program
One simple strategy we’ve implemented is a no-questions-asked leave-of-absence program. As long as you don’t take more than one leave per year, and as long as you use any PTO you have for it first, our employees can step away from their jobs for up to a month at a time. Simply knowing that the option is there helps our employees to have the confidence to do what they need to take care of themselves. This approach helps to cut down on turnover and encourages employees to be honest about their struggles, further helping us to support them.
Nick Valentino
VP of Market Operations, Bellhop
Establish a Comprehensive Employee-Assistance Program
We recognize that major life changes, such as divorce or the loss of a loved one, can significantly impact an employee’s mental health and overall well-being. To provide support during these challenging times, we have established a comprehensive employee-assistance program (EAP) that offers confidential counseling services, resources, and support for those navigating difficult personal situations.
We encourage open communication and create a culture of understanding where employees feel comfortable discussing their needs with their managers. For instance, when an employee experienced a loss, we provided flexible work arrangements, allowing them to take the necessary time off while also maintaining regular check-ins to ensure they felt supported.
Additionally, we host workshops and seminars focused on mental-health awareness and coping strategies, fostering a supportive environment that emphasizes empathy and community. This holistic approach not only helps employees cope with their challenges but also strengthens our workplace culture, demonstrating our commitment to their well-being.
Shehar Yar
CEO, Software House
Offer a Life-Change Sabbatical
My company has introduced a flexible and compassionate approach to supporting employees during challenging times of their major life transitions. One unique initiative we offer is the so-called “life-change sabbatical.” It’s a longer, more thoughtful leave that allows employees the time they need to focus on themselves without the added pressure of rushing back to work. Whether it’s a few weeks or a couple of months, this sabbatical is designed to give them space to heal, process their emotions, and navigate the personal complexities of their situation.
When employees are ready to return, we work with them to gradually reintegrate into their roles at a pace that feels right. This phased approach involves reducing workload or allowing flexible hours, so they don’t feel overwhelmed while transitioning back into their professional responsibilities. We ensure they feel supported and not rushed so they can come back with a clearer mind and a healthier outlook. We also provide access to mental health resources, such as counseling and wellness services. Moreover, we train managers to approach these situations with empathy and care.
I believe that by giving people the time and emotional support they need during life’s most challenging moments, we help them become stronger, personally and professionally. There’s life outside of work, so our top priority is ensuring employees that their well-being is genuinely valued, no matter the circumstances.
Agata Szczepanek
Career Expert & Community Manager, LiveCareer
Foster an Open and Empathetic Environment
We foster an open and empathetic environment where employees feel comfortable discussing personal challenges with their supervisors or H.R. This dialogue allows us to offer personalized support, whether through flexible work arrangements—such as modified hours or the ability to work remotely—or simply by providing a listening ear during difficult times.
We also encourage employees to take mental-health days when needed, recognizing that self-care is critical during emotionally overwhelming periods. Our culture emphasizes compassion and understanding, with colleagues often stepping in to offer support or cover for one another.
By focusing on flexibility, communication, and peer support, we ensure that our team members have the space and resources to navigate personal hardships while balancing their professional responsibilities.
Meghan Freed
Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Freed Marcroft
Adjust Expectations and Respect Privacy
Our workplace tries to meet people where they’re at when they are going through a tough time. If someone requests time off, we make sure to grant it. However, some people prefer to work after a major life change, whether to take their mind off of things or because they need money.
We try to adjust expectations for people going through a tough time and encourage them to shift responsibilities onto other team members if necessary. We also make sure to respect their privacy. Usually only HR knows what a person is going through specifically.
David Holman
CMO, Textun
Provide Flexible Work Schedules
We provide support by offering flexible work schedules. We recognize that employees may need extra time to process emotions or manage personal responsibilities, so we allow them to adjust their hours or take additional time off as needed. This flexibility helps them balance their personal and professional lives without added stress.
We also encourage open communication and provide access to mental health resources. Employees can discuss their situations with HR or supervisors in a confidential and supportive environment. Additionally, we offer resources such as counseling services and mindfulness workshops, giving our team the tools to navigate these challenging experiences.
We believe in fostering a compassionate workplace where employees feel personally and professionally supported. By providing flexibility, emotional support, and mental health resources, we aim to help our team members manage life changes while maintaining their well-being.
Timothy Burgin
Founder and Executive Director, Yoga Basics
Take a Personalized and Intimate Approach
Initially, we take a very personalized, meaningful, and intimate approach, endeavoring to treat the matter as we would with a close family member—with authenticity. We would go for a walk off-site, allowing them to confide and get consoled, building trust and interconnectedness. Once they’re stabilized and in a better state, we work on discussing next steps—starting with flexible hours and then supporting them in finding peer mental, wellness, and compassionate support.
From there, we establish a cadence to stay on top of things for what we hope will be a smooth landing. Ultimately, we approach the matter as if caring for a close family member, with love and meaning.
Shervin Zade
CEO, SimpleCITI Companies
Create a Space for Emotional Support
When someone is going through a major life change—like a divorce or losing a loved one—it’s not just an event, it’s an emotional upheaval that impacts every part of their life, including their work. What’s essential is creating a space where people feel seen, not just for their productivity, but for their humanity.
Offering flexibility in time, listening without rushing to solve, and acknowledging that grief or personal crisis isn’t something you “get over” but something you live with. We need to recognize that mental health doesn’t exist outside of these moments; it’s woven into how we show up at work and how we’re supported through the transitions.
Zita Chriszto
Licensed Psychologist, Dubai Psychology
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