More and more, leaders are recognizing the importance of supporting employee mental health. They’re checking in, creating space for honest conversations, and building cultures of psychological safety. This shift is long overdue and deeply encouraging.

But amidst all of this, one essential question must be asked:

Are leaders taking care of their own mental health?

The reminder we hear on every flight applies just as much to leadership: Put on your own oxygen mask before helping others.

The Pressure of Leadership

Leadership is demanding. It carries emotional weight, decision fatigue, and the constant pull to support others, even when you’re running on empty. Yet many leaders feel pressure to power through, to model strength, to stay “on” at all times.

But resilience isn’t about ignoring your own needs. It’s about recognizing them early, and responding with care.

Some signs to watch for:

• Difficulty sleeping
• Fatigue or low energy
• Feeling overwhelmed or emotionally reactive
• Rising anxiety or low mood
• A sense of disconnection or isolation

If any of this resonates, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to go it alone.

Strategies for Self-Care

Here are a few ways leaders can take care of themselves:

• Speak to a trusted friend, mentor, or mental health professional
• Reach out to your EFAP or support network
• Engage in regular self-care (sleep, movement, quiet time, healthy boundaries)
• Normalize talking about mental health, starting with your own

You can’t lead well if you’re running on empty. Being aware of your own mental health is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. The stronger you are within, the better you’ll lead those around you.

Let’s take care of ourselves so we can truly take care of others.

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Editor’s note: Contact Steve to schedule a one-on-one leadership coaching session.

Steve will be joining Alliance CEO Wayne Arondus on stage at the Expo 2025 in Osaka. They will be sharing strategies for what how EQ and psychological safety can help leaders set their teams up for success.  

Additionally, Steve provides consultations to members on how to create safe and healthy workplaces—and offers workshops on a variety of mental health topics that can impact manufacturing facilities.

Written by Dr. Steve Conway | Director of Leadership and Psychological Safety
Originally shared via  LinkedIn