Happy Friday! Here are my May 31 Hot Topics and how they relate to advancing leadership or culture.
Hot Topic 1: ‘Game of Thrones’ Kit Harington Seeks Therapy.
Source: Page Six.
What it’s About: Kit Harington, best known for playing Jon Snow in HBO’s hit series “Game of Thrones,” spent time recovering from exhaustion and alcohol use at a rehab retreat in Connecticut. There was no spin or hiding the story. The actor was very transparent and proud of his decision to get help.
Why it’s Important: There is still too much negative stigma attached to declaring the need for mental wellness help. This is starting to change based on the courage of public figures like Harington, and radio personality Howard Stern, personally emphasizing the need and benefit of therapy. Mental health is perhaps the most important wellness issue of our time, and frankly, many of us need help. Our self-awareness and ability to confidently ask for it will move each of us forward.
Hot Topic 2: Mental Health: Truth is Lots of Us Need Help.
Source: Forbes.
What it’s About: To get a better sense of workplace mental health and stigma, 1,500 individuals were surveyed online between March and April, 2019. Nearly 60 percent of respondents experienced symptoms of a mental health condition in the past year. Half of those lasted from one month to the entire year. The most common symptoms were related to anxiety (37 percent), depression (32 percent), and eating disorders (26 percent). Perhaps even more surprising is that mental health symptoms were equally prevalent across all levels of seniority within companies, from individual contributors to the c-suite.
Why it’s Important: We have to make it acceptable and necessary to recognize when we are personally experiencing mental health issues. This includes more self-awareness. From drinking too much alcohol, eating disorders to depression, most of us can benefit from serious, competent therapy. Organizations need to lead the way with support services and leadership from and for top execs. That takes courage.
My Weekly Wine Recommendation (Thanks to Vivino):
Duckhorn Merlot Napa Valley 2015
[Picture and ratings provided by Vivino.]
And finally! Here’s Cecil’s Bleat of the Week!
“Do what you are scared to do and watch your confidence grow.” – Grant Cardone.
Bye for now!
– Lorne Rubis
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