Mental health is no longer a topic confined to personal well-being; it has emerged as a critical factor in fostering a healthy and thriving business environment. According to the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety cost the global economy over $1 trillion per year in lost productivity. Recognizing the importance of mental health in the workplace is essential for leaders and organizations to create a supportive and high-performing culture. In this article, we present eight exceptional speakers from Executive Speakers Bureau who each offer unique insights into mental health and its impact on business and leadership.

Petra Velzeboer: Destigmatizing Mental Health in the Workplace

Petra Velzeboer is the CEO of Mental Health Consultancy PVL and a mental health and resilience expert who offers a fresh perspective on addressing mental health challenges in the workplace. She uses her experience with people teams and leadership to create strategic initiatives for organizations by looking forward into the future of work. Having overcome her own traumatic experiences, she advocates for open conversations, destigmatization, and creating psychologically safe environments.

She shares her experiences with vulnerability, authenticity, and a thrilling call to action. Having grown up in a notorious cult, she intimately understands the detrimental effects of a toxic environment and the essential components for developing resilience and fostering positive mental well-being. Upon leaving the cult, she found herself battling addiction, depression, and anxiety, reaching a desperate point where she contemplated ending her own life as a mother to two young children. Experiencing multiple rock-bottom moments, she ultimately made the courageous decision to release her victim mentality and embark on a transformative journey towards a purposeful and fulfilling existence.

Her approach to mental health questions the notion of "bubble bath wellbeing" and instead prioritizes positive psychology, high-level achievement, and fostering cohesive teams that will stay united as they progress and develop together. This vision aims to establish a work environment that promotes both personal well-being and enduring success. Velzeboer's talks empower leaders to recognize the signs of mental distress, foster a culture of trust and support, and equip teams with tools to manage stress and maintain well-being.

Jim Davidson: Overcoming Adversity and Building Resilience

Jim Davidson, an acclaimed mountaineer, New York Times bestselling author, and resilience expert, shares his powerful story of overcoming challenges in extreme environments. Through his experiences climbing and summiting Mount Everest and other famous peaks around the world, Jim underscores the importance of mental fortitude, perseverance, and resilience.

After his first attempt to climb Mount Everest was thwarted by 7.8 magnitude earthquakes resulting in the deadliest day on the mountain, Davidson found strength in his resolve and returned to reach the summit. His story was told on CNN, CBS, ABC, NBC, Smithsonian Channel, PBS, National Geographic’s “Witness to Disaster,” and Discovery Channel’s “I Shouldn’t Be Alive.” His books, The Next Everest and The Ledge, outline his experiences and the mindset that brought him to finally conquer Everest.

He encourages leaders to prioritize mental health, manage stress, and create a culture that supports individual well-being. Davidson's engaging presentations provide practical strategies for personal and organizational resilience, empowering audiences to face adversity head-on.

Lisa Walden & Hannah Ubl: Bridging Generational Divides

Lisa Walden & Hannah Ubl, co-founders of Good Company Consulting and mental health advocates, share their decades of research on workplace culture to bring together different generations and help organizations create a curated culture that’s perfect for its teams.

Through their presentations, Lisa & Hannah reframe ideas and biases surrounding mental health challenges, empowering leaders to create safe spaces for open conversations. By addressing the stigma associated with mental health, they help organizations foster a culture of acceptance, support, and inclusion. They also work towards shining a light on all the ways the new-aged workplace can fit the lifestyle of any generation. Lisa & Hannah's insights bring people of all different backgrounds together to create a more cohesive work culture.

Their books, Managing Millennials for Dummies and The Future is Human: How the Pandemic Made the Case for Human-Centric Workplaces, have been used as a guide within organizations to reshape their workplace culture. Their talks encourage leaders to prioritize mental well-being and provide resources that promote overall mental health and resilience.

Chris Bashinelli: Cultivating Empathy for Mental Well-Being

Chris Bashinelli is a renowned speaker and National Geographic explorer and TV host known for his inspiring talks on empathy and cultural understanding. He emphasizes the crucial connection between empathy and mental well-being. Through his engaging presentations, Bashinelli challenges leaders to foster a workplace culture that prioritizes empathy, compassion, and emotional intelligence. By understanding the importance of mental health in building strong relationships and teamwork, audiences gain valuable insights into creating a supportive work environment, leading to ultimate productivity and happiness within their work life.

Dr. Tami West: Nurturing Mental Wellness through Mindfulness

Dr. Tami West is a leading expert in mindfulness, stress reduction, and emotional intelligence. With her background in academics and research and engaging style, she guides leaders and organizations on the journey of nurturing mental wellness.

Dr. West's keynote speeches introduce evidence-based mindfulness techniques that enhance focus, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. By incorporating mindfulness into their leadership practices, audiences learn to cultivate resilience and create a healthier work environment.

Kevin Briggs: Mental Health and Suicide Prevention in the Workplace

Kevin Briggs, a former California Highway Patrol officer, is recognized for his compassionate approach to suicide prevention. After years of working on the Golden Gate Bridge and saving countless lives from suicide attempts, Briggs earned himself the moniker “Guardian of the Golden Gate.” In his keynote speeches emphasizes the significance of mental health awareness and intervention. He educates leaders on identifying signs of mental distress, fostering a supportive environment, and promoting access to mental health resources. Briggs’ talks are a powerful catalyst for positive change and demonstrate how investing in mental well-being is crucial for workplace success.

Amanda Gore: Emotional Intelligence for Positive Workplace Culture

Amanda Gore is an expert in emotional intelligence and workplace culture transformation. Her energetic presentations highlight the power of emotional intelligence in fostering positive relationships, reducing stress, and enhancing overall well-being. Gore provides practical strategies for leaders to create emotionally intelligent workplaces that prioritize mental health and employee engagement. Through her engaging and interactive sessions, she inspires audiences to harness the transformative potential of emotional intelligence.

Neil Pasricha: The Science of Happiness and Mental Well-Being

Neil Pasricha, a bestselling author and speaker, explores the science of happiness and its profound impact on mental well-being. Pasricha is an expert in sharing evidence-based strategies for cultivating happiness, resilience, and positive mental health. His talks provide practical tools to manage stress, promote well-being, and enhance overall productivity. Neil's uplifting messages resonate with leaders seeking to create a mentally healthy and thriving work environment.

Mental health is a critical component of a successful business and leadership journey. Our Mental Health Keynote Speakers offer valuable insights into mental health and its impact on organizations. By engaging their expertise, leaders can foster a supportive work environment, reduce stigma, and prioritize the well-being of their teams. Don't miss the opportunity to book these inspiring speakers who illuminate the path to mental well-being and help create a healthier workplace. Reach out to the Executive Speakers Bureau today to secure these transformative speakers for your next event.