HR leaders and executives are often the bridge between individual well-being and organizational performance. Recognizing early warning signs of mental health issues is key to creating a supportive culture and intervening before issues escalate.
Behavioral Signs to Watch For
- Sudden drop in performance or engagement
- Withdrawn or avoidant behavior in meetings
- Unusual irritability, emotional outbursts, or flat affect
- Absenteeism or frequent sick days
- Noticeable fatigue or disorganization
- Changes in appearance or demeanor
What You Can Do as a Leader
- Normalize the use of support resources
- Build check-ins into your leadership cadence
- Empower managers to start non-intrusive, supportive conversations
- Share mental health tools and content proactively
Why This Matters
Early recognition and response protect your people and your business. Ignoring signs of distress leads to deeper organizational risk — turnover, lost productivity, and reputational damage. Proactive leadership is protective leadership.