Individually, and collectively, we are having to change and adapt because of forces we cannot control. Every person, every family, every industry is experiencing this – all at the same time.

Companies are scrambling to help reskill their leaders to meet the new needs and expectations of customers and employees. Never before have we seen, or experienced so vividly, what it takes for us to thrive, and the impact of prolonged crisis and stress on our mental health and wellbeing.

And though some of us are through the worse of COVID wave one, the first wave of impact from associated mental health issues has yet to hit. A global pipeline company was shocked to find that a mere 10% of its workforce opted for a voluntary return to the office. We just aren’t ready, willing or able.

Mental health support will be critical in helping our workforce bounce back from crisis mode successfully. One global energy company recently announced a $10,000 funds allocation per employee, to be spent on mental health and wellbeing resources. Smart companies are investing now in helping bring their workforce back – mentally, emotionally and not just physically.

And when it does finally feel safe for the majority to return, to what extent will their leaders have the skills to foster health and wellness on their teams?

What its going to take to rise out of the ashes of this pandemic, is to have every person fully engaged and mentally able to tackle the challenges that lie ahead? Critical to that end will be the empathy and compassion of socially astute leaders who understand how to support team members and peers to thrive during difficult times.

How are you equipping leaders with skills in engaging a post-pandemic workforce where everyone feels psychologically safe and supported? These are the skills that will determine a company’s success or failure over the months ahead.