Fostering a Mentally Healthy Workplace

An interactive, self-directed eLearning course hosted on LifeWorks Learning’s Learning Management System followed by a half-day workshop for leaders that builds foundational knowledge as well as leadership-specific skills in a small-group setting
  • Half-day
  • Specialized Programs
  • Leader

Description

Many people with mental health issues work among us, struggling with symptoms while trying to fulfil their responsibilities to the best of their ability. People leaders often question their role and what they can or should do to support their team members. This program introduces people leaders to sound management practices that support a mentally healthy workplace and provides two conversation models to use when addressing sensitive situations such as behavioural or performance issues that are often indicative of an underlying mental health problem.

Organisations looking for a deeper look at mental health leadership should consider our Workplace Mental Health Leadership Certificate program

Structure

This two-part program flows from theory to practice.

Part 1 (45-minute e-learning module focuses on theory):

This module introduces participants to the reality of mental health issues and the associated stigma. Participants explore their role as leader and leadership practices that support prevention of mental health issues in the workplace. They also explore the Supportive Coaching Model and the Early Performance Coaching Model, two conversation models to use when addressing sensitive situations such as behavioural or performance decline. These models are instrumental in supporting a team member to remain at work while recovering from a mental health issue, either full-time or with an accommodation. Sometimes, it may be necessary for a person to take a leave of absence in order to recover. This module explores best practices for supporting the person through the absence and return-to-work periods.

The e-learning module ends with a final assessment that requires a minimum score of 80% in order to be marked complete. Participants must complete the e-learning module before attending the virtual learning lab.

Part 2 (3-hour virtual instructor-led learning lab focuses on practice):

This learning lab provides the opportunity to practice the two conversation models, explored in the e-learning, through three impactful role-plays. Practicing these conversations in a safe environment helps leaders increase their confidence and empowers them to address sensitive situations such as behavioural or performance issues that are often indicative of an underlying mental health problem.

It also provides an opportunity for participants to share their thoughts on key concepts explored in the e-learning module such as their role in promoting a mentally healthy workplace, warning signs that a person may be experiencing a mental health issue, and reactions they might get from team members when addressing a decline in performance or behaviour.