Australia is facing a mental health crisis, and it's one that reaches far beyond hospital walls. It shows up in our workplaces and, in some cases, can be exacerbated by them. And all too often, it’s shrouded in silence.
Our team members are facing a wide range of personal challenges, from the increasing cost of living to balancing competing demands of parenting and employment and navigating rental or housing markets that are in crisis. As the situation escalates, we, as leaders, can no longer afford to stand on the sidelines.
It's time to make mental health a priority, not just a talking point
One in five Australians will experience mental health issues in any given year, and that will ultimately impact their family members too, so the impact doesn’t stop at the individual. In fact, we all feel it, with an estimated $220 billion cost to the economy each year.
In our work at VERTO, we see firsthand how mental health challenges affect people across all life stages. From young job seekers facing anxiety and depression to parents grappling with overwhelming demands and tenants struggling to keep a roof over their heads amidst a rental crisis, mental health is an ever-present and growing concern.
In our employment, training and community programs, we’ve seen an anecdotal increase in clients seeking support for mental health, either directly or as part of the barriers they face to securing employment.
In these times, we also see the resilience of the VERTO team, many of whom work on the frontlines, supporting others through some of their toughest moments. But let’s be honest, they aren’t immune. They’re human. They have their own stresses and life challenges. That’s why support is a key pillar of our organisational culture.
Authentic leadership means taking action
As leaders, we are at the forefront of the organisational culture and, ultimately, set the tone. And that must go beyond policy. It’s incumbent on us to create spaces where team members feel supported beyond the office walls.
Of course, most large organisations have formalised support in place through employee assistance programs and similar, but it’s also about creating space for conversation. Normalising the conversation by encouraging open discussion about mental health and speaking on it as leaders is key because it will encourage and permit others to do the same.
It’s also crucial to consider the systemic issues in the workplace. High workload and stress can be significant contributors to mental health issues. So, as leaders, we must also have the processes and safeguards in place to ensure we aren’t setting our staff on a course for burnout.
Leading with empathy, genuinely checking in on your team members – asking, ‘Are you okay?’ (and meaning it) – will open communication channels. There’s a good chance it will improve your workplace too.
Mental health is a workplace issue
When we invest in mental health, we don’t just support our teams; we strengthen our organisations. We reduce absenteeism, boost morale and build cultures where people want to show up and contribute. More than that, we do the right thing, and in today’s world, that matters.
It’s a challenging journey but an important one. There are many resources out there for leaders and organisations who want to make mental health a priority. The Black Dog Institute offers a great workplace toolkit, and these free resources can be a fantastic place to learn more and get started.
At VERTO, we’re committed to continuing the conversation and putting action behind our words. Because if we’re not actively supporting mental health in the workplace, we may become part of the problem — and that’s not the kind of leadership our teams or our communities need right now. It’s time to lead with heart.
If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health, you don't have to face it alone. Remember, reaching out is a sign of strength.
In Australia, there are some incredible support services that are ready to help. Services like Headspace offer a safe space for young people to talk about what’s going on, whether it's anxiety, stress or relationship issues. Beyond Blue provides support and information to help Australians tackle depression and anxiety, with resources tailored for individuals, families and workplaces. And if you're in crisis or need immediate support, Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14 to listen without judgement and help you find a pathway through.
