Talking About Mental Health at Work – Can I Speak to Your Manager? | Mark Bailey | TEDxDayton

Mark shares his own experiences with mental health challenges at work, some good and some bad, and then lays out effective ways for managers to address these kinds of challenges when brought to their attention. This includes creating an environment where employees aren’t afraid to speak up about what they’re going through, which can result in better relationships and even more productivity. Mark Bailey lives with anxiety, depression, and borderline personality disorder. Finding success on his journey has inspired him to help others, especially his peers at Procter and Gamble, where Mark is a Human Resources Expert. Mark created a global employee mental health support group, co-edits a healthy minds newsletter, and leads his site’s vibrant living program. Mark also leads Montgomery County NAMI’s Progression program which focuses on teen mental health in downtown Dayton, where he currently resides.
Disclaimer: Mark’s views are his own and not on behalf of Procter and Gamble. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

20 Comments

  1. You've never worked at Sainsbury's, You could have a limb hanging of and they would discipline you for not going in! I left after 6 month of due to mental health issue of being forced to work while seriously ill both physical and mental health illness. Stress can make your mind go very dark, I now suffer Anxiety and depression. I didn't Know I was autistic and masking which was to much stress for my body and mind.

  2. My supervisor doesn't stand with me even though i have done many difficult cases. I think the whole society is going to be a place which needs slaves but human.

  3. Amazing job, Mark! You brought me to tears. Such an important topic, and as a business owner and boss myself, you’ve inspired me to be even better and more compassionate and understanding to my therapists. As someone who struggles with anxiety and PTSD, I can totally relate to everything you said. How incredible to go up and do this talk?!?! Take that, anxiety! ❤️❤️❤️💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼 you’re an inspiration!!!!!

  4. What an inspiring story that creates vision for others as how they can empower their employees with behavioral health issues instead of add to their issues. Leading with empathy is vital for success with all staff, but your story shows how empathy is especially important for employees with mental health issues to thrive. Great job in raising awareness!

  5. There is no support out there for us, even when I have mentioned my mental illness to employers there response basically is, are you on medication, how will this effect your work, we need you to be reliable and that is that. I am a good person, I am not lazy. I struggle to sleep at night over fear of the next day, of having a panic attack and then being late. I have left many jobs due to my anxiety and every time I begin a new one they want a reference of the previous. It is awful. This working society is not made for us, how are we meant to survive?

  6. Nice video. In life there are only 2 problems- mind and the body. To reduce stress and overthinking be careful what you feed your mind. Avoid comparing yourself with others, any bottled up emotion needs to be shared with someone, reduce watching negative social media and avoid constipation as it affects the mind. Your breathing is closely related to the brain [mind] and gives relief from stress-anxiety. For a relaxed mind observe the sensations of your natural incoming–outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for 10-15 minutes or more. You can sit or lay down–eyes closed–No deep breathing. Don’t fight your thoughts. Never meditate with expectations. Make it a lifetime habit to observe your breath day and night before sleep, at work, when travelling, when reading etc with eyes open or closed. Best wishes–Counsellor.

  7. Beware of psych meds that increase these symptoms. Switching meds or tapering off increases symptoms for a period.

    My experience sharing with the bosses resulted in years of exploitation.
    Employment while on SSDI means facing a fiscal cliff, loss of all benefits if one should succeed for a number of months.

    And yet, a good job can be the ticket to work that helps one escape this self-sealing doom loop.

  8. WOW man! I was MADE to watch your video as part of a training and I am so happy I did! Looking at employees struggles can help build a team and build trust. Just a little effort and kindness can payback so much. You have balls of steel to make yourself so vulnerable. I'm lucky to be a part of a good company that values its people as well. Take care.

  9. I’m sorry to say that a lot of bosses really don’t give 2 shits about your feelings. They will say we acknowledge you have a mental problem but the bottom line is if you ain’t making them enough money they will replace you with someone who will. It’s a sad world out there.

  10. Being forced to be violated by your employer by an experimental medical procedure is pretty high up on the list with lots of lasting depression and anxiety afterwards for years to come.

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