We simply could not have marked World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September better. For that we have to thank our guest speaker Mr. Nick Jonsson, Managing Director of EGN Singapore. Nick gave one of the most authentic, courageous and open presentations we have ever hosted. His topic was executive loneliness which, if not recognized and treated, can result in substance abuse, wrecked lives, lost jobs and relationships and, at its very extreme, suicide. As we all know, society still stigmatizes mental illness which very often prevents people from seeking the help they need. Men especially. Thankfully, Nick did seek help. His best friend did not and committed suicide.

When are we going to realize that each of us makes up society? Let’s all wake up and dispense with outdated and unhelpful stigmas and taboos. The current pandemic has taught us to focus on what is important and to discard what is not. Good mental health is just as important as good physical health for each of us, for our relationships with loved ones and friends, for our jobs and for our businesses. Leaders may feel lonely at the top sometimes but it is every leader’s responsibility to set the tone for his or her organisation and to work with their teams to build and sustain a positive workplace culture. Part of a positive workplace culture is where leaders look after their mental wellbeing and enable their teams to do likewise.

Nick concluded his presentation by sharing effective ways to cope with and overcome mental health challenges. The key ones are: get help. don’t wait and, when you feel better, help others.

Click here to access the webinar recording.