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A transformational approach to total worker health and safety.
A transformational approach to total worker health and safety.
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Balance is key to a thriving workplace.
When mental health is prioritized at work, employees feel supported, teams work more efficiently, and businesses grow stronger. Through the Healthy Work Healthy Mind program, Michigan employers and employees are stepping up as leaders and creating environments where wellbeing is part of the culture. The initiative, led by LEO, is setting a national example. It proves that when we invest in people’s mental health, we strengthen Michigan’s entire business community.
In June 2022, LEO released its first Workplace Mental Health report with data and recommendations that continue to guide Michigan’s efforts. The report outlines five steps to start building a resilient workplace, helping employers build supportive organizations by integrating mental health strategies that establish healthier workplaces, enhance employee wellbeing and promote resilient companies.
The new Workplace Mental Health and Well-Being report builds on that foundation, offering research on how stress — especially work-related stress — affects both mental and physical health. It also emphasizes that many job-related factors are modifiable and can be redesigned to better support the health and well-being of Michigan’s workforce.
Why it Matters
Burnout Pushes Workers Out
Approximately 40% of employee turnover is attributed to job-related stress.
Mental Health is a Growing Expectation
81% of workers reported they will be looking for workplaces that support mental health in the future.
Supporting Employees Supports Business
Employees who strongly feel their employer cares about their overall wellbeing are 3× more likely to be engaged at work.
There’s Strong Return on Investment
For every $1 invested in mental health support, employers can expect a $4 return through reduced absenteeism and enhanced productivity.
"The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity provided our members with a practical, enlightening presentation on workplace mental health. Recognizing the significance of mental well-being in the workplace is crucial, and their insights brought to light new, simple strategies to manage stress in the workplace."
-Warren Call, President and CEO of Traverse Connect
Take Action and Empower your Team
Request a Speaking Engagement
Looking to foster a healthier workplace or deepen your understanding of labor rights? LEO’s Deputy Director of Labor offers practical guidance and inspiration.
Watch Webinars
Our monthly webinar series provides actionable insight to get your business started with the Healthy Work Healthy Mind initiative. Watch past webinars.
Stay in the Know
Join our email list to receive updates on the latest workforce mental health resources and news.
LEADS: Transform your workplace culture with a proven five-step approach.
LEADS is a six-month, consultant-supported program that helps Michigan employers build healthier, more supportive workplaces. Through a simple Learn–Educate–Act–Deploy–Study framework, LEADS guides organizations in improving mental health awareness, strengthening policies, empowering employees and creating lasting, measurable change.
Ready to lead?
Learn more about LEADS, see if your business is eligible and start your workplace wellbeing transformation.
Healthy Work Healthy Mind Webinar Series
Thursday, July 16, 2026 @ 2 p.m. - Session 1: The Burnout Challenge: Understanding Chronic Stress in Today's Workplace
Stress is a normal part of life, but when it becomes constant, it can take a toll on employee wellbeing, engagement, and performance. In today's rapidly changing world, many workers are navigating ongoing pressures related to work demands, economic uncertainty, caregiving responsibilities, and world events.
In this session, participants will explore the difference between everyday stress and burnout, learn how chronic stress shows up in the workplace, and better understand its impact on individuals, teams, and organizations. Attendees will also be introduced to practical strategies and Mental Health First Aid concepts that can help workplaces recognize concerns early and foster a culture of support.
Participants will learn:
- The difference between stress, chronic stress, and burnout
- Common warning signs and workplace impacts
- Why burnout is an organizational issue—not just an individual one
- How Mental Health First Aid can support early recognition and intervention
Thursday, August 20, 2026 @ 2 p.m. - Session 2: Creating Conditions for Wellbeing: The Organizational Response
Organizations play a critical role in supporting employee mental wellbeing and reducing the risk of burnout. While stress cannot be eliminated entirely, workplace culture, leadership practices, and organizational systems can significantly influence how employees experience and manage challenges.
In this session, participants will examine how employers can create psychologically safer workplaces where employees feel supported, connected, and empowered to seek help when needed. The discussion will highlight practical strategies leaders can implement to promote wellbeing, reduce stigma, and strengthen workplace resilience.
Participants will learn:
- How workplace culture influences stress and burnout
- The importance of psychological safety and supportive leadership
- Practical organizational strategies that promote employee wellbeing
- How Mental Health First Aid can complement broader workplace wellbeing efforts
Participant link coming soon.
Thursday, September 17, 2026 @ 2 p.m. - Session 3: Thriving Through Challenge: The Individual Response
While organizations have an important role to play, employees also benefit from understanding how to recognize and respond to stress in themselves and others. Building resilience is not about avoiding challenges—it is about developing skills and supports that help people navigate them effectively.
In this session, participants will learn practical approaches to managing stress, maintaining wellbeing, and supporting colleagues who may be struggling. The session will also explore how Mental Health First Aid can help employees have supportive conversations and connect others to appropriate resources when needed.
Participants will learn:
- How to recognize personal signs of chronic stress and burnout
- Strategies for building resilience and protecting wellbeing
- Ways to support coworkers while maintaining healthy boundaries
How Mental Health First Aid can help create a more supportive workplace community
Participant link coming soon.
Additional Helpful Resources
In the Workplace
Directly Involving Employees and their work-related experiences
Affecting the Workplace
External factors that indirectly impact an employee and their work-related experiences
Individualized Behavior
Personalized tools, strategies or interventions