In film and television depicting work culture during the mid-to-late 20th century, employees were expected to keep their work separate from every other aspect of their lives. Meanwhile, moments depicted outside of the workplace would be filled with office talk. The motive behind this sort of atmosphere was most likely to keep personal life problems out of work situations. But, even if possible, how would that have contributed to a healthy office with employees who found their definition of wellness?

During the 21st century, we are more open in society when it comes to talking about mental health and its effects on one’s daily life. But up until the pandemic, it was still pretty easy to keep work and the outside separated. Companies would build in-office cultures and connections that seemed to fade out other aspects of life. When in-person restrictions sent most away from the office and to remote work indefinitely, the line that once kept career and home in their respective lanes no longer existed. For most industries, this revealed just how much employees needed support from their leaders. 

CEOs and company leaders are, ultimately, in charge of providing the necessary resources to their employees because of the examples they set both in and out of the office. No matter the industry or size of company, most employees base the tone of their work culture on how their leaders interact with them. CEOs who are more open about issues like wellness will encourage their employees to prioritize their health. Providing therapy recommendations, access to wellness platforms, or other services to help people through trying times will further establish the idea that leaders care for their people. 

So are CEOs doing their part? The short answer is yes. About 92% of CEOs have stated that their companies have increased a focus on mental health due to the pandemic. However, only 70% of employees say that they are doing a good job at prioritizing mental health. Though that is a good amount of employees, there is still a concern for the 30% that feels unsupported. If leaders want their team to succeed when the odds are against them, they need to ensure that all of their members feel well enough to dedicate time to their work.

Though we are all working towards a society where mental health is prioritized as much as physical wellbeing, those efforts could go even further when backed by the leaders of the world. Finding ways to support your employees while staying true to your company’s mission will contribute to a closer, more complex work culture.