Today is Bell Let's Talk Day.
Dan Connop
Professional Facilitator/Customer Experience/Leadership/Sales Skills/Team Effectiveness/Mental Health Advocate
My struggles with mental health
I'm very aware that LinkedIn is professional business site and people shy aware from personal issues. I understand that and support those thoughts.
However, I believe mental issue isn't just a personal struggle it is also affects our working environment.
I'm not really sure I have said this out loud to my professional network... I have fought anxiety for years. There I said it... Wow I don't feel any different. I was scared to say it... "What will people think?" "Will they think different of me?" One thing I know for sure is I'm not embarrassed by my mental illness!!!
So now the professional part... The workplace is the most important environment to discuss mental health and illness, yet it is the last place we expect to hear about it. Please take a minute today and think about how mental illness effects your working environment. Don't be shy to speak about your illness with your boss, peers and employees it you feel it is appropriate.. During my career when I have trusted my boss or a peer to share my illness I have felt compassion and support. It was such a relief!!! I'm not sure if the stigmatization of mental illness will ever end. When people are brave enough to admit they have a mental health problem, it can often lead to various forms of exclusion or discrimination – either within social circles or within the workplace.
It is important to know that someone in a position of leadership and authority can impact mental illness. No one is inoculated from mental health challenges. I can't tell you if you should approach an a employee or how you should deal with mental illness in your office. One thing I do know is if you decide to have a discussion please lead with compassion and nonjudgmental. Also most companies are learning about how to support employers and employees with regards to mental illness in the workplace. Reach out to a HR professional. I feel so lucky to work for a company that supports wellness.
As I write this short article I feel anxious. To be honest I have wanted to write it for years but I was afraid of what people would think. Well... It's time to walk the walk not talk the talk. I didn't write this so people would say I'm brave. I wanted to write it so others knew they aren't alone.
Take care my friends
Director, CX Operations at BCAA
6yThe definition of leadership is now expanding to include vulnerability, transparency, compassion & humour. Dan demonstrates these qualities (amongst many other talents!) everyday- that’s what makes him such a unique & inspirational leader!
Dealer Account Manager at Global Warranty
6yME TOO ... and I have always been a strong advocate for living it authentically. It is what I have , It is not who I am . I never shy away from the journey both myself and my adult son have shared with our illness . The more we feel compelled to be silent the more we will see others suffer and ultimately make a choice they might not have if they felt the freedom to share without pity or judgement. We all need to speak out , share and help those we see needing support . There are so many support systems that 20 years ago were not there . Mental illness when first diagnosed was never revealed in the work place . I chose a different route I shared & in tern others started to open up and policies changed evolved . We are all part of the change. Thank you for your voice
Retired - Self Employed
6yAwesome job Dan! You have always been and continue to be a gift to all those who have the good fortune to work with you. Hold your head high, it's a message we all need to share.
Helping organizations transition through change one person at a time.
6yAll I can say is thank-you for sharing. I think we all have someone we love that is struggling and can relate to your story ❤️