Enhancing Mental Health Awareness in Fast-paced Workplaces

It's been just over a year since the boom around ChatGPT and generative AI, and the conversation around mental health awareness in the workplace is more relevant than ever. How can companies keep up with fast-paced, and ever-changing tech while making sure the office space - whether virtual or not - remains healthy and engaging?

That's why Merging Minds, a podcast powered by BureauWorks, took a deep dive into the matter with Laura DeCook, founder of LDC Wellbeing and a veteran in advocating for mental wellness.

And this episode comes at perfect timing, as May has been Mental Heath Awareness month in the U.S. since 1949.

Host Javi Diaz spoke to Laura as she brings a wealth of experience from both tech and film industries, including a significant tenure at Google. Her journey towards becoming a mental health advocate was deeply personal, influenced by her own challenges and those of her family.

"In these, you know, fast paced industries like tech, like film, people are bringing their laptops everywhere they go, they're checking their phones first thing in the morning, they're checking their phones at night. They're always plugged in and it just didn't seem like a sustainable way to live."

The Road to Advocacy

Ever felt like you're just not okay at work? Laura knows that feeling all too well. It was her own burnout at Google that pushed her towards advocating for mental health awareness. Today, she runs LDC Wellbeing, which she established to bring mental health education and advocacy to workplaces worldwide.

For her, championing mental health in the corporate world begins in establishing a setting where everyone is trained to support each other’s mental health. That’s what Laura initiated at Expedia Group through innovative mental wellness programs.

Her efforts included the introduction of Mental Health First Aid training and the creation of a well-being hub—bold steps that helped weave mental health awareness into the fabric of the company.

Despite the progress, talking about mental health at work isn’t always easy. Legal and cultural hurdles were plenty, but Laura found that transparency and support from upper management could break down these barriers. Her experience shows how vital it is for companies to embrace mental health discussions openly and responsibly.

Technology’s Double-Edged Sword

Do you find technology a blessing or a curse? Laura says both. While apps like Talkspace and others make mental health support accessible, there's a crucial need for digital detox. The golden path can be found in a balanced approach: embracing the benefits of technology but also stepping away to recharge when the need arises. It always does.

Javi brought up his own experience working remotely, and how just going out for some fresh air does the trick. "Some days I don't leave my house at all. And, you know, it's just getting out and even taking a walk around the block, and is so good for my mental wellbeing and kind of a reset."

And that's because mental health awareness isn’t just a corporate responsibility; it's a personal journey. Each of us can advocate for better mental wellness at work, starting with open conversations and a nonjudgmental attitude.

Looking Ahead

Laura’s mission extends beyond conversations. She’s actively transforming workplaces into environments that support mental health. This work is not just about reducing stigma; it’s about creating spaces where people can thrive physically, socially, financially and emotionally.

"When you know you're not alone, when you know that it's not just you, you say, hey, there's something that needs to be fixed here", she points out.

Feeling inspired?

Tune into the Merging Minds podcast to hear more about Laura’s approach to mental health in the workplace.

Find all episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Youtube.

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Learn more about her work or join upcoming events on ldcwellbeing.com