Lead with Care to Change Mental Health for Good by
Robert LaMattina
Changing how we approach mental health starts with how we treat people especially when they’re at their most vulnerable True leadership isn't about power or control It's about empathy, patience, and presence. When you lead with compassion, you create safe spaces for people to be honest about what they’re facing That kind of trust is rare but incredibly powerful As explained by Robert "Robbie" LaMattina, mental health issues often go unseen and unheard, not because they aren’t real, but because
people are afraid they won’t be taken seriously A leader who listens without judgment can make all the difference
When someone feels safe enough to speak up, real healing begins This isn’t about having all the answers but being willing to hear the questions A nod, a pause, a moment of silence instead of a rushed solution can show someone they matter It costs nothing to be kind, but the return on that investment is everything Support doesn’t have to come in the form of grand gestures Sometimes, simply checking in regularly or offering flexibility at work can reduce anxiety and foster resilience.
It’s also important to challenge outdated assumptions about what strength looks like Vulnerability is not weakness it’s the courage to be seen and heard When leaders normalize open conversations about mental health, they change the culture They make it okay to struggle, ask for help, and take time to heal That shift can ripple out to families, teams, and entire communities. Small acts of empathy can spark big changes in mindset
Leaders also have the power to advocate for better mental health resources, both internally and publicly Investing in employee well-being isn't just the right thing to do it’s also smart business. Teams thrive when people feel valued, not just for what they produce but for who they are This environment helps reduce burnout, increase retention, and improve overall morale
If we want to build a future where mental health is treated with the same urgency as physical health, we have to start with how we lead today. By supporting mental wellness in every interaction, we help shift the world toward one where no one feels alone in their struggle That’s real, lasting change