Page 2 - The Leadership Line: May 2024

May: Full of Moments to Reflect

As we look forward to longer days and warmer weather, the month of May is full of moments to reflect, show
gratitude, and extend our appreciation to several different groups. May is designated to honor past and present
military members and their families, including Loyalty Day (May 1), Military Spouse Appreciation Day (May 10),
Mother’Armed Forces Day (May 18), and culminating with Memorial Day on May 27. Thinking of thanking a
veteran for their services on Memorial Day? Although it might be a kind gesture, just remember that Memorial Day
isn’t about honoring veterans. It’s about honoring the friends and family they may have lost while serving.

Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 12th. We pay tribute to these women who have given so much of themselves to lift
their children, nurture their spirits, and encourage us all to reach for our highest aspirations. One of the simplest
steps a company can take to support working mothers is to keep the lines of communication open and discuss their
changing needs with supervisors or human resources. Be empathetic, compassionate, and understanding about the
challenges working moms face. Ask them how they’re feeling, what they need, and any specific way you can support
them. Remember the new mom, the single mom, the mom of an active-duty service member, and even the empty
nester will have different and evolving needs. Show them you care by remaining open and flexible during every
transition.

Mental Health Awareness Month Did you know?

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to prioritizing “New data suggests that for
our well-being and promoting open conversations about mental health. almost 70% of people, their
We recognize the importance of mental health and its impact on our
overall well-being. This year’s theme, Where to Start: Mental Health in manager has more impact on
a Changing World, reminds us that dealing with life’s pressures can be their mental health than their
overwhelming, and everyone deserves to feel supported and empowered to therapist or their doctor—
seek help when needed. and it’s equal to the impact of
their partner.”
A study of over 200 employer members of the International Foundation -Tracy Brower, PhD
of Employee Benefits found a U.S. national average of almost 10% of all
covered employees who used EAP counseling. Everyone has challenges
and it’s our responsibility as leaders to lead with empathy and care.
Managers spend hours each day with their staff and can observe changes in their mental well-being. Managers
need to be approachable and confident about mental health and should take steps to normalize conversations about
mental health and encourage open dialogue. Regular one-to-one meetings and catchups are a great place to ask your
team how they’re doing to regularly help build trust and give employees a chance to raise problems at an early stage.

Accomodations
One way MIL managers can support their members through challenging
times is by initiating adjustments to how and where the employee conducts
their work. These accommodations might include:

» Flexible hours or change to start/ » Changes to break times
finish time. » Provision of quiet rooms

» Change of workspace –e.g., » Lightbox or seat with more natural
quieter, more/ less busy, dividing light for someone with seasonal
screens depression
» Remote work

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