How to Train Managers and CXOs for Mental Health?

Imagine walking into your office and knowing that nearly 7 out of 10 people around you are struggling with workplace stress. 

Some are battling burnout. 

Others are silently carrying the weight of anxiety, fearing judgment if they speak up. 

Stress isn’t just a personal struggle anymore—it’s a business epidemic.

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), nearly 77% of employees experience work-related stress.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 12 billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety, costing the global economy an astounding $1 trillion per year in lost productivity.

The modern workplace is facing an invisible crisis—stress, burnout, and mental health struggles are at an all-time high. 

Managers and CXOs have the power to change that. 

With the right training, they can foster a workplace culture where employees feel safe, supported, and empowered to perform at their best.

This in-depth guide explores how leaders can proactively address mental health in the workplace, backed by real-world case studies, cutting-edge research, and actionable strategies. 

From recognizing early warning signs to using the right language and implementing workplace wellness programs, this resource equips decision-makers with the tools to drive meaningful change.

The Current State of Mental Health in the Workplace

Given these alarming statistics, equipping managers and CXOs with the right tools and knowledge to address mental health issues in their teams is no longer optional—it’s an organizational imperative.

Why Stress Needs to be Handled at Work

Recent events highlight the severe consequences of unmanaged workplace stress:

• Investment Banking Tragedy: A former Wells Fargo banker, John Femenia, engaged in illegal activities fueled by an Adderall addiction developed to cope with grueling work hours. This led to significant legal repercussions and personal turmoil. (WSJ)
  
  
• Healthcare Sector Strain: A generational divide in the medical field reveals younger doctors seeking work-life balance while older physicians express concerns. This tension contributes to stress and impacts patient care quality. (WSJ)

These cases demonstrate that unaddressed workplace stress can lead to ethical breaches, health crises, and even loss of life, emphasizing the urgent need for effective stress management strategies in professional environments.

12 of the Most Stressful Jobs in America

According to the American Institute of Stress, certain professions demand the highest levels of stress tolerance due to intense responsibilities, unpredictable work environments, and high stakes.

1. Urologists – 100/100 Stress Tolerance

Urologists handle sensitive, often painful conditions and surgeries, requiring precision, compassion, and resilience under pressure.

2. Film & Video Editors – 99/100 Stress Tolerance

Tight deadlines, real-time editing demands, and creative expectations make this one of the most high-pressure jobs in media.

3. Anesthesiologist Assistants – 98/100 Stress Tolerance

Managing anesthesia in life-or-death surgical procedures requires intense focus and zero room for error.

4. Judges & Magistrates – 98/100 Stress Tolerance

The pressure of delivering legal judgments with far-reaching consequences leads to high mental fatigue.

5. Public Safety Telecommunicators – 97/100 Stress Tolerance

911 dispatchers must remain calm under pressure while handling life-threatening emergencies daily.

6. Acute Care Nurses – 97/100 Stress Tolerance

Providing urgent, critical care to patients in distress is both physically and emotionally draining.

7. Obstetricians & Gynecologists – 97/100 Stress Tolerance

Delivering babies and handling emergency childbirth complications require nerves of steel.

8. First-Line Retail Supervisors – 96/100 Stress Tolerance

Managing employees, customers, and store performance creates constant workplace tension.

9. Nurse Anesthetists – 96/100 Stress Tolerance

The role requires extensive medical knowledge, precise decision-making, and operating under high-stress conditions.

10. Nurse Midwives – 96/100 Stress Tolerance

Assisting with childbirth can be unpredictable and demands around-the-clock availability.

11. Transit & Railroad Police – 96/100 Stress Tolerance

Ensuring public safety in high-risk areas puts officers in stressful and dangerous situations.

This list highlights careers where high stress is part of the job description. Understanding stress tolerance in various roles emphasizes why mental health support in the workplace is critical.

Understanding Stress in the Workplace

What is Workplace Stress?

Workplace stress refers to the challenges an individual faces to cope, often leading to emotional exhaustion, decreased performance, and long-term health risks due to excessive workload. 

It is when employees feel powerless over their workload or unsupported by colleagues and supervisors that stress compounds, impacting both mental and physical well-being. 

Symptoms of Workplace Stress

Recognizing stress symptoms early can help managers intervene effectively. 

Here are 10 common symptoms of workplace stress:

1. Fatigue – Constantly feeling tired, even after rest.
2. Irritability – Increased frustration or mood swings.
3. Difficulty Concentrating – Struggling to stay focused.
4. Sleep Disturbances – Insomnia or oversleeping.
5. Frequent Headaches – Tension headaches or migraines.
6. Digestive Issues – Stomachaches, nausea, or IBS.
7. Increased Absenteeism – Frequent sick days or tardiness.
8. Loss of Motivation – Decline in enthusiasm for work.
9. Physical Aches & Pains – Muscle tension or unexplained pain.
10. Withdrawing from Social Interactions – Avoiding meetings or team interactions.

Why Do People Experience Stress at Work?

Employees experience stress due to various workplace factors, including:

• High Job Demands – Excessive workloads and long hours.
• Lack of Control – Feeling powerless in decision-making.
• Unclear Expectations – Unclear roles or responsibilities.
• Workplace Culture – A toxic or unsupportive work environment.
• Career Growth Uncertainty – Lack of career progression.
• Lack of Recognition – Feeling undervalued for contributions.
• Micromanagement – Overbearing supervision leading to frustration.

How to Train Managers and CXOs for Mental Health

Managing Stress at Work

Download our FREE Self-assessment Stress Worksheet and help your team members or colleagues tackle stress at work. 

Words to Avoid

❌ “Just tough it out.”
❌ “You’re overreacting.”
❌ “We all have stress; deal with it.”
❌ “Maybe you should quit if it’s too hard.”
❌ “Just don’t think about it.”
❌ “I’m not your therapist.”
❌ “Other people have it worse.”
❌ “Mental health isn’t a priority at work.”
❌ “You’re being too sensitive.”
❌ “It’s all in your head.”

Words to Use Instead

✅ “I appreciate you sharing this with me.”
✅ “How can I support you?”
✅ “You’re not alone in this.”
✅ “Let’s explore solutions together.”
✅ “Your well-being is important.”
✅ “I value your contributions.”
✅ “Take the time you need.”
✅ “We can adjust your workload if needed.”
✅ “You have access to mental health resources.”
✅ “Your feelings are valid.”

Conversation Openers for Managers and CXOs to Tackle Mental Health in the Workplace

Starting a conversation about mental health in the workplace can be challenging. Here are some openers to help managers and CXOs create a safe space for employees to discuss their concerns:

• "I’ve noticed you’ve been quieter than usual lately. Is everything okay?"
• "I just want to check in with you—how are you feeling about work and everything else?"
• "Work can be overwhelming at times. If you ever need to talk, I’m here for you."
• "It’s completely okay to take a break when you need it. Are you getting enough time to recharge?"
• "We all go through stressful periods. Can I help in any way possible?"
• "I want you to prioritize your mental health. What would help you feel more supported?"
• "Is there anything about your workload or schedule that’s been particularly challenging for you?"
• "I appreciate your hard work, but I also want to make sure you’re taking care of yourself. How can I help?"