Joe McKendry/The Globe and Mail
Remember when Don Draper waited till he crashed and burned before retreating to a hippie commune? It’s not 1970, so don’t be Don.
In 2025, bosses give lots of lip service to mental health at work, but they don’t often practise what they preach.
“It can be challenging for a leader to admit they need a break, because they think they’re supposed to be representing the strength of the company,” says Amy Oliver, a Winnipeg leadership coach specializing in mental health best practices.
She suggests reframing that thought: “You’re still leading—by example.” Sure, you could pretend you’re taking a really long vacation or “spending more time with family,” but you’ll miss the moment to demonstrate a true commitment to mental health—even and especially your own.
“Remember that the decisions you make as leader foster the well-being of the whole team,” says Oliver, “and consider the message you’re sending.”
You don’t owe anyone personal details or diagnoses, but do share what feels comfortable, and tell your truth without shame.
In lieu of a big, scary meeting, Oliver suggests filming (a dozen times over, if necessary, to get it just right) a short video saying something like, “To be at my best, and lead effectively, I’m taking this time off to recharge and—I’d explicitly say this here—lead by example.”
Subtext: If you’re suffering, it’s okay to say so, because even the boss did. A hundred initiatives by the keenest mental health committee couldn’t do it better.
Your time is valuable. Have the Top Business Headlines newsletter conveniently delivered to your inbox in the morning or evening. Sign up today.