Mental illness is so common and most of us struggle with it at some point in our lives. Especially in this competitive industry, where a lot of us struggle to get sleep...

and can feel pressured to neglect our relationships. A good reminder to be a little kinder to those around you and be an ally to those in need.

Amen, my friend. I would also add that leaders shouldn't be afraid to bring their whole selves to work. I talk openly about being in therapy for anxiety to my team in the hopes that they won't be afraid to do the same if they need it. Reduce the stigma.

I deal with mental illness and have my whole life. Mine manifests differently. I have no problem getting to sleep. But I could sleep all day if I let myself. I have trouble distinguishing the extent to which my hours with melancholy are attributable to workplace circumstances versus neurochemistry. At minimum, it's not ideal. I have told team members because I think our world creates a lot of conditions that help foster mental illness. I want people who report to me to take care of themselves, and people don't always know what's normal and what isn't. This is bigger than advertising. If I held a leadership position as an auto mechanic or a nurse or a police officer I'd do the same thing.

I love this post. A year ago now I decided to be upfront with employers about needing to leave from 12-1 every Thurs to see a therapist. I used to lie and told them I has physical therapy for my knee. But I realized that by lying I was only perpetuating a stigma that should not exist. And I’m happy to say all my employers and teams have been super cool about it 🙏

❤️❤️❤️

SDS1 - Good for you for being so open about your struggles. We need more people like you to come forward to reduce the stigma of mental illness. I am sure you are setting a good example for members of your team.

I got let go for having too many doctors appointments at my last job. I repeatedly told them I had therapy and mental health appointments. So don’t be too open about your issues I guess