Table 1.

Overview of workplace Mental Health Supervisor Supportive Behaviors (MHSSB)

Support behavior	Definition	Example behaviors	Conversation starter
Emotional Support	Support that shows you care about your employees’ mental health	• Increase connection between you and your employees by increasing face-to-face contact • Convey genuine concern about the mental health of your employees	How are you doing today?
Practical Support	Making practical arrangements to meet the needs of employee’s personal demands	• Discuss the mental health resources available to employees during team meetings • Make arrangements and adjust employee schedules to reduce conflict with personal responsibilities and challenges	As your supervisor, how can I adjust your schedule to best suit your personal needs and challenges?
Role Modeling	Lead through example by modeling how you take care of your own mental health and well-being	• Share healthy coping strategies that have helped your mental health • Be clear and prioritize your mental health needs as a supervisor	This is how I manage my mental health and what has worked for me, what might work for you?
Stigma Reduction	Clearly communicating that it is healthy, safe and normal to seek help and support regularly and when in need	• Normalize seeking help and support and emphasize workplace resources • Provide a safe environment by being discrete about employee well-being conversations and challenges	I want to let all of my team members know about the following workplace resources to support your mental health. I have had great experience myself with these resources.
Warning Sign Recognition	Recognizing when an employee may be struggling with their mental health	• As a supervisor you recognize when your employee is upset about something • You recognize when an employee is not themselves	I noticed that you missed our team meeting this morning, is everything okay?
Warning Sign Response	Actively responding when you observe an employee who may be struggling with their mental health and well-being	• Regularly remind your employees that you are there to help • Use open-ended questions when asking employees about their mental health	Is there a time that works best for you to check-in today?