Every year, one out of four Americans face mental health issues. These figures escalate in the tech sector, with 42% in the US and 48% in the UK reporting mental health challenges. This is a global concern within the IT community. Due to societal stigmas, many hesitate to broach the subject of mental health, despite its significant impact on both personal and professional life. It's essential that we actively address mental well-being in the tech world and prioritize our most invaluable asset: our people.

In this session, we will explore the relationship between mental health and job performance, drawing from real-life professional experiences. We will delve into the four main workplace elements that contribute to mental health issues in the tech realm. Practical advice will be given on the dos and don'ts when communicating with individuals grappling with mental health concerns. We'll also outline steps to cultivate a workplace environment where mental health topics are openly addressed and guide on how companies can offer resources to foster mental well-being for all.