05 May Nonprofit Leadership Success by Making Mental Health a Priority

Adults reporting increased anxiety, depression, stress, and suicidal thoughts have been rising in the past two years. Lifestyle changes such as quarantine, social distancing, curfews, and lockdowns to protect our physical health have negatively impacted many individuals’ mental health. For many nonprofit workers, the demand for resources from their organization increased, staff changes were imminent, and working conditions were drastically changed – this left people feeling disconnected, isolated, and anxious.

The pandemic has created an economic and mental health crisis that has presented leaders across all organizations in all industries with significant challenges – nonprofits especially. But as organizations with missions to improve the quality of life and the advancement of public health, nonprofits often feel the pressure to be role models for others. Consequently, the expectation of being the ones to enhance and promote well-being can be overwhelming.

As nonprofit leaders, we must recognize that our own staff and volunteers may also be suffering from negative emotions during these challenging times. And failing to prioritize mental health and well-being can weaken trust, put psychological safety at risk, and reduce engagement. We know how hard everyone at nonprofit organizations works and how much they help others. Here are some tips on how to promote mental health within your organization to help the heroes of our society:

Create a culture of mental wellness

Communicate to your team that you place value on the importance of mental health and a supportive work environment. Ask your employees about mental health initiatives they may like to implement within the organization. Start a conversation on job satisfaction and if there are any policies they think should be reviewed.

Stay connected

The world is re-opening or has re-opened. Some have returned to their physical offices, while others have chosen to retain remote workforces. Connect often and consistently whether your team is back to face-to-face operations or telecommuting. Dedicate a day each week or every two weeks to check in with your staff and volunteers. This can be done as a group or individually, depending on the size of your operations.

Communicate to your team that these are not formal meetings but rather casual check-ins. Create a theme for each, such as sharing favorite memes or photos of your pets or kids. It may even be an opportunity to share stories about specific challenges you’re experiencing.

The goal is to prevent silos and feelings of loneliness, which can be detrimental. By taking an interest in your team’s lives outside of work, you create a sense of camaraderie. People need to be reminded that they are still part of a supportive team, regardless of whether their tasks allow them to work independently with minimal to no supervision.

Practice flexibility

Practice and promote workplace flexibility whenever possible. You can allow flexible hours and reduced schedules without sacrificing output and productivity. When employees have flexible options, they feel that leadership trusts them with their tasks, increasing work satisfaction and reducing stress. Good practice for leaders that are worried about employees abusing flexible hours would be to schedule a dedicated time to check in each day. Some employees may even appreciate the check-in as it adds structure to their day and allows them to connect with team members.

During uncertain times, mental health is more important than ever – especially for those who give so much back to the community. Help your nonprofit team explore ways to improve and maintain a positive environment and you will see lasting and impactful results.

About Jackie Sue Griffin & Associates: We are committed to offering design, data collection, synthesis, analysis and reporting to reflect our mixed-methods capabilities and adherence to data-driven decisions. We support the passionate leaders who make nonprofits successful. From professional development to organizational assessment and capacity building, we use evaluation, data and education to help you and your team do more to improve lives and communities. We can change communities together. We have the expertise to assist you with meaningful programs and support so that your organization can make an impact.