Hidden impact: how managers shape our mental health more than we realise

For far too long, mental health was a topic cloaked in stigma, spoken of only in hushed tones or relegated to the clinical confines of a therapist's office. However, the pandemic and its aftermath have reshaped how we view mental health, especially in the context of work.

One of the most striking revelations is the profound impact managers have on their employees' mental health – sometimes even more so than doctors or therapists.

The manager's role: a double-edged sword

The idea that our managers could influence our mental health more than healthcare professionals might seem surprising at first. However, when you consider how much time we spend at work and the significant role our jobs play in our lives, it begins to make sense.

A recent survey by the Workforce Institute at UKG found that 69 per cent of employees reported their managers had as much of an impact on their mental health as their spouse or partner. In contrast, only 51 per cent said their doctor had a similar effect. These statistics underscore the reality that managers are often the gatekeepers to our mental wellbeing.

But this influence is a double-edged sword. A supportive, empathetic manager can be a source of strength and resilience, helping employees navigate the challenges of both work and personal life. On the flip side, a manager who is indifferent or worse, toxic, can exacerbate stress, leading to burnout, anxiety and even depression.

The stress factor: work's toll on mental health

The data doesn’t lie – work is a significant stressor for many people. In the same UKG survey, 60 per cent of employees worldwide stated that their job was the biggest factor influencing their mental health. This stress is not just confined to the office – it bleeds into our personal lives, affecting our relationships, wellbeing and overall happiness.

One in five employees reported that their job negatively impacts their mental health. For women, this number rises to nearly one in four. At the end of the work day, 43 per cent of employees feel “often” or “always” exhausted, and a staggering 78 per cent say that stress negatively impacts their work performance. These figures paint a bleak picture of the current state of mental health in the workplace.

Power of empathy: building a supportive environment

Given the significant impact managers have on mental health, it is crucial for organisations to equip their leaders with the tools they need to support their teams effectively. This starts with empathy. Managers who lead with empathy and vulnerability create a safe space for employees to express their struggles and seek help when needed.

A manager doesn’t need to have all the answers or solve every problem, but they do need to be a connector – someone who can link employees with the right resources, whether that’s HR support, mental health services, or simply a listening ear. It's about creating an environment where it’s okay not to be okay, where mental health is openly discussed, and where employees feel they belong.

The bottom line: investing in mental health pays off

Investing in mental health isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s also good business. Employees who feel supported and valued are more likely to be engaged, productive and loyal.

On the other hand, those who feel unsupported are more likely to experience burnout, disengage, and ultimately leave the organisation.

In a world where talent is the most valuable asset, companies cannot afford to ignore the mental health of their employees.

In conclusion, the role of managers in shaping the mental health of their teams cannot be overstated. As we continue to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace, it is imperative that we recognise the power managers hold and the responsibility that comes with it.

By fostering a culture of empathy, support and open communication, managers can be a force for positive mental health, helping their teams thrive both in and out of the office.

References

1. Workforce Institute at UKG. (2024). The impact of managers on mental health: a global survey. https://www.ukg.com/resources/white-paper/mental-health-work-managers-and-money
2. Brower, T. (2023). Managers have major impact on mental health: how to lead for wellbeing. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/2023/01/29/managers-have-major-impact-on-mental-health-how-to-lead-for-wellbeing/#
3. Robinson, B. (2024). Number 1 reason managers have a bigger mental health impact than your therapist. Forbes. https://forbes.com/sites/bryanrobinson/2024/04/15/number-1-reason-managers-have-a-bigger-mental-health-impact-than-your-therapist/#
4. 8 ways managers can support employees’ mental health. https://hbr.org/2020/08/8-ways-managers-can-support-employees-mental-health
5. How managers can support worker mental health – Comcare. https://www.comcare.gov.au/safe-healthy-work/mentally-healthy-workplaces/how-managers-can-support-worker-mental-health-and-wellbeing
6. The role of workplace managers in protecting and promoting employee –https://www.nature.com/articles/s44220-024-00308-z