Giving Troy a bit of a break today, Jeremy welcomes special co-host, Jenn Lowry, Navigate's VP of Product and Strategy to the podcast today. Together, they sit down with Navigate's Mental Health Coach and licensed counselor, Katie Tarbill, for a fascinating chat about embracing mental health at work - such a big deal for everyone these days.

First up? They clear up "mental health" versus "mental well-being." Then it's all about workplace trends, leadership's role, what resources actually help people feel safe and good at work, and company policies.

This episode really breaks down mental health. It’s not just clinical stuff - it’s also about building resilience and finding satisfaction. Our experts talk about the stigma, how tough it is to open up at work, and how important it is to create open, nonjudgmental spaces. Education, like Mental Health First Aid, gets a shout-out as do resources like EAPs, telehealth, findhelp.org and wearables. They also touch on holistic well-being, mindfulness, exercise, volunteering, and how company policies, like time off and mental well-being hours, show that employers care. It all helps build a workplace where mental health matters.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 - Why Managers Are Critical to Workplace Mental Health

01:10 - Defining Mental Health vs Mental Wellbeing

02:56 - Katie’s Journey From Teacher to Mental Health Coach

04:33 - Rising Mental Health Trends

05:59 - How COVID Transformed Mental Health Access Through Telehealth

07:11 - Empowering Leaders to Spot and Support Mental Health Needs

08:26 - Practical Resources to Build a Mental Health-Friendly Workplace

10:15 - Inside Mental Health First Aid

12:16 - Using Data and Tools to Improve Employee Mental Health

15:13 - Reducing Stigma Across Generations and Creating Safe Workspaces

17:31 - Holistic Mental Wellbeing

20:47 - Building Mental Health Culture Through Policies, Education, and Leadership

23:54 - Best Day Ever

Key Takeaways:

"Managers and leaders are the first line of defense in recognizing mental health needs. They work daily with employees, noticing signs and symptoms."

"Mental health is a clinical term involving diagnosis and treatment. Mental well-being is broader, focusing on prevention and building resilience."

"Holistic approaches to mental health, like mindfulness and journaling, are popular. People seek less invasive ways to cope and manage stress."

"Covid shifted healthcare towards virtual spaces. Telehealth became more utilized, making mental health support more accessible."

"Education and knowledge about mental health are paramount. Courses like Mental Health First Aid can equip individuals to help those facing challenges."

"Removing barriers to mental health care, like through telehealth, is crucial. It makes support more accessible and reduces stigma."

"Generational stigma around mental health is real. Younger generations are more open, but we must continue breaking stigma for all."

"Connecting community purpose to work purpose through volunteer hours builds a greater sense of community and enhances mental well-being."

"Leaders set the tone for mental health in the workplace. They must lead by example, practicing what they preach and taking time off."