Recognizing Mental Health and Its Impact on Team Health

Mental health isn't a topic we can brush under the rug, especially in the fast-paced world of production. If this is the first time you're reading my blog, welcome. But before diving into today's thoughts, please read my last post on this topic for some context if you have not already.

As someone who has spent years in production environments, I've only recently understood how being on edge affects more than just my internal state—it impacts my leadership, my team, and the quality of our production work. No matter your role, how you feel mentally and emotionally is crucial in how you lead and how your team responds to you.

There have been many moments when I didn't fully realize how stress or anxiety was manifesting until I saw its effects in my interactions. It could have been a sharp tone I used with a team member, a lack of patience with a volunteer, or simply not being as present and engaged as I should have been. It sucks to say, but it even happened this past week. This lack of awareness can be damaging in production, where we often rely on each other to get things done seamlessly. When our mental state spills over into the way we treat people, that's not fair to anyone.

This is why it's essential to be honest with yourself about your mental health—especially in leadership. If we don't take care of what's happening internally, we risk creating environments where high tension and collaboration break down. We set the tone for our teams' culture, and if we ignore our struggles, we inadvertently signal to others that they should do the same. Production is more than just getting the technical elements right; it fosters an environment where people feel empowered, trusted, and valued. And that starts with being honest about your limitations.

When I recognize that I'm not in the best headspace, I can take steps to manage it. Sometimes, that means taking a break, asking someone else to step in, or being upfront with my team that I'm having a tough day. This kind of transparency doesn't make someone a weak leader—it shows that team that being human is okay. It helps create a culture of trust where people feel safe sharing their struggles, ultimately leading to better collaboration and a more cohesive team.

In my experience, prioritizing mental well-being leads to more effective leadership. When I'm in a good mental state, I'm more patient, better at communicating, and more present in my work. By leading from a place of mental clarity, I'm not just a better leader—I'm a better teammate. I can focus on the task, guide my team with compassion, and foster an environment where creativity and collaboration can thrive. This kind of leadership not only inspires and motivates a team, but it also leads to a higher level of excellence in production. It's a powerful reminder that our mental health is not a hindrance, but a key to our success.

So, whether you're running a large production or leading a small volunteer team, take the time to check in with yourself. Being aware of your mental health doesn't just benefit you—it benefits your team and the entire production. When you're in a good mental state, you're more patient, better at communicating, and more present in your work. This can lead to better collaboration, healthier relationships, and ultimately, a more successful production. Everyone has their off days, but how we handle them can make all the difference in our impact on those around us.