Supporting the Supporters: Recognising Mental Health Challenges in Leadership
As the year draws to a close, many teams begin to feel the familiar sense of mental fatigue — the kind that comes from months of hard work, constant targets, and the balancing act of professional and personal life. But there’s one group whose challenges often go unseen: management and executive teams.
At SA Lube, we know that leadership carries more than just responsibility. Behind every business decision are people who care deeply about their teams, the company’s success, and the wellbeing of every employee. While leaders are often the ones offering guidance, motivation, and support, they too experience moments of mental drain — especially when the weight of ensuring stability for others rests heavily on their shoulders.
The Hidden Pressure of Leadership
Managers and executives play a vital role in keeping the business moving forward — overseeing operations, motivating teams, managing finances, and making tough decisions that impact livelihoods. It’s a rewarding job, but also one filled with high expectations and constant pressure.
The emotional toll can build up quietly. Many leaders feel they must always appear strong and composed, even when they’re running on empty. This can lead to burnout, anxiety, or feelings of isolation — especially toward the end of the year when the workload peaks, and performance reviews, budgets, and planning sessions all converge.
Recognising that mental health affects everyone, regardless of their position, is the first step to creating a truly supportive workplace culture.
How Staff Can Support Leadership Mental Health
Mental wellness in the workplace is a shared responsibility. While management often takes the lead in supporting staff wellbeing, employees can also play a powerful role in helping leaders feel appreciated, understood, and supported. Here are a few ways teams can contribute:
Show empathy and understanding:
Remember that managers are human too. A simple “How are you holding up?” or “Thanks for your guidance this week” can go a long way.
Communicate openly and respectfully:
Clear, constructive communication reduces unnecessary stress. Keep your leaders informed, raise issues early, and work together on solutions.
Be proactive and take ownership:
When team members take initiative, it lightens the load on management and builds mutual trust.
Acknowledge their effort:
A quick thank-you, a positive comment in a meeting, or recognising their hard work shows appreciation and boosts morale.
Encourage healthy boundaries:
Respect that leaders also need time to recharge. Avoid late-night emails or unrealistic expectations — rest benefits everyone.
A Culture of Care, From the Top Down
At SA Lube, we believe that supporting mental health is not about hierarchy — it’s about humanity. When leadership feels supported and understood, it sets the tone for the entire company.
As we approach the end of another busy year, let’s remember that mental health doesn’t stop at the leadership level. It’s a shared commitment that ensures everyone — from the workshop to the boardroom — can step into the new year with renewed energy and a healthy mindset.
Because when we take care of our leaders, they’re better able to take care of us all.
Our Customer Service Belief
SA Lube is a proud supporter of the Little Eden Society, a registered non-profit organisation providing life-long care to 300 children and adults. Little Eden is a registered non-profit organisation and PBO providing life-long care to 300 children and adults with profound intellectual disability in two custom designed residential facilities – Domitilla and Danny Hyams Home in Edenvale, and Elvira Rota Village, in Bapsfontein.