Prioritizing Mental Health in the Workplace on World Mental Health Day
By Eva Wong, Executive Director of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health
On this year’s World Mental Health Day, October 10th, themed “Prioritizing Mental Health in the Workplace,” we focus on those at the heart of community mental health — community health workers, peer support workers, youth workers, teachers, faith leaders, and more. These individuals create a safety net for their communities, providing accessible, culturally relevant, and person-centered care. They are often the first point of contact for those in need, making their roles critical in strengthening the mental health of the broader community.
The Mayor’s Office of Community Mental Health (OCMH) is dedicated to supporting these caretakers and helpers, and equipping them to ensure they are also well supported in their roles. Our community-centered approach integrates both clinical and non-clinical professionals, valuing the lived experiences and unique relationships they hold within their communities. By embedding mental health support in places where New Yorkers naturally gather — afterschool programs, community centers, places of worship, older adult centers, and public housing developments, we ensure that care is more accessible by meeting people where they are.
Through the Academy for Community Behavioral Health, we provide learning opportunities to frontline staff, helping them build resilience and trauma-informed practices. These trainings not only transform workplaces but also strengthen the capacity of organizations to better serve New York’s diverse communities. The Academy’s courses are free for community-based organizations as well as city and state employees, and we encourage leaders to make them a priority for their teams.
As we reflect on this World Mental Health Day, it’s essential to support and elevate those who provide care in our communities. By investing in their training and expanding mental health services into non-traditional settings, we create a more resilient, connected system that promotes healthier communities across New York City.
To foster a mentally healthy workplace culture, leaders can model wellness practices, encourage staff to engage with mental health resources, and provide dedicated spaces for mindfulness and self-care. Promoting emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and interpersonal skills through leadership development is also key. The Academy for Community Behavioral Health offers resources to help build these skills, creating workplaces that support the well-being of staff and the communities they serve.
Together, by prioritizing mental health at work and in our communities, we are building a stronger, more resilient future for all.
