The Wellness Gift We Often Forget to Give: Listening
“The most important thing in communication is to hear what isn't being said.”
— Peter Drucker
The Wellness Gift We Often Forget to Give: Listening
October 10th is World Mental Health Day, and this year's World Health Organization theme is “Lived experiences heard: real voices, real change.” The campaign focuses on making sure people with lived experience are not simply asked to share their stories, but are genuinely included in the conversations, decisions, and support that affect them.
That idea matters in the workplace, too.
A supportive workplace isn't one where everyone is expected to have it all together. It's one where people feel comfortable saying, “I'm having a difficult week,” “I could use some help,” or even, “I'm not really sure what I need right now.”
Sometimes, creating that kind of environment starts with something surprisingly simple: listening.
Why Being Heard Matters
When someone feels heard, they don't necessarily walk away with their problem solved. But they may walk away feeling less alone, less judged, and more comfortable asking for support.
You don't need to be a mental health professional to offer that. Being present, asking a thoughtful question, and giving someone your attention can make a meaningful difference.
The need is significant. The World Health Organization estimates that 12 billion working days are lost globally each year because of depression and anxiety, at an estimated cost of around US $1 trillion in lost productivity.
Sources: World Health Organization. (2026). World Mental Health Day 2026: Lived experiences heard: Real voices, real change. World Health Organization. World Health Organization. (2026, September 15). Mental health at work. World Health Organization.
6 Ways to Create More Supportive Conversations
1. Listen before you try to fix
Our first instinct is often to offer a solution.
Try listening without planning your response, and let them finish their thought, even if the answer seems obvious.
2. Ask what they need
Instead of assuming what would help, ask.
A simple question like, “Do you want me to listen, or would you like help figuring this out?” gives the other person a choice and takes away the pressure to respond a certain way.
3. Make room for honest answers
We ask, “How are you?” all the time, but rarely have the time to hear the real answer.
A short check in during a coffee break or after a meeting can open a door someone didn't feel comfortable opening on their own.
4. Don't make their experience about you
Sharing your own story can help, but there is a difference between relating to someone and taking over their story.
Instead of “I know exactly how you feel,” stay curious and ask questions.
5. Check in before someone reaches a breaking point
Support shouldn't only appear when someone is already overwhelmed.
Managers can make wellbeing part of regular conversations, and coworkers can check in with someone who has seemed quieter than usual.
6. Know when to connect someone with more support
You can listen without trying to become the solution.
Sometimes the most helpful thing is encouraging someone to speak with a manager, HR, a healthcare professional, or a wellness resource.
A Simple Challenge for This Week
Listen before you solve.
The next time someone tells you they're having a difficult day, pause before offering advice. Ask a question. Put your phone away. Give them a few minutes of your full attention.
Sometimes wellness starts with someone simply saying, “I'm here. Tell me what's going on.”
Support Starts With Better Conversations
At Topia, support can look different for everyone. Coaching, community, and wellness classes can provide a space to pause, reflect, connect, and take care of your wellbeing.
Ready to help your team feel more supported?
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