Mental Health Champion "Deanna Arnold" Recognition & Why Workplace Leadership Matters

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and during this time, it is important to shine the light on mental health so that it becomes more and more talked about, supported and understood.

With that, I am incredibly honored to share that I’ve been selected as part of the inaugural cohort of Mental Health Champions through Mental Health America of Central Carolinas.

I was recognized as a 2026 Mental Health Champion in the Advocacy Division, and while I’m proud of the title, what matters most to me is why this work matters, particularly in the workplace.

Mental Health Belongs at Work

Mental health isn’t just about mental illness, crisis moments, or when something has gone “wrong.” It’s part of everyone’s overall health on an everyday basis. And the workplace plays a significant role in shaping it.

For business owners and leaders:

·       The environment you create impacts people

·       How you speak to your team

·       How you manage pressure and expectations

·       What behaviors you reward or ignore

·       What you address, and what you avoid

All of it sends a message, whether you realize it or not.

You don’t have to be a mental health champion to create a supportive and positive work environment, I am not. You just have to lead with intention, awareness and empathy.

Leadership with Humanity

One of the most important things we can do as leaders is recognize that people don’t stop being human when they come to work. Especially now with technology, constant connection and a seemingly increased sense of societal pressures.

Everyone is balancing families, health concerns, finances, grief, joy, stress, and everything in between. The work environment can either contribute to the burden or help alleviate it.

When leaders prioritize psychological safety, encourage healthy boundaries, and model empathy, the results go far beyond morale. People are more engaged. Teams are stronger. Work is more sustainable.

And most importantly, people are healthier.

Continuing the Work

Being named a Mental Health Champion doesn’t mark a finish line for me. It reinforces my commitment to keep going.

I’m grateful to continue this work through:

·       Serving on the Board of Sanctuary Counseling Group

·       Working with the wonderful humans at Employers Advantage LLC

·       Building my second business, Alonespace, a space for people to unplug and recharge for the overall wellness

Each of these roles gives me the opportunity to advocate for mental health not as a “nice to have,” but as a fundamental part of caring for and supporting people.

A Shared Responsibility

I’m humbled by this recognition, but I know this work is bigger than any one person.

If you’re a leader, you have influence, and I hope that you use that for the betterment of others.

Thank you to Mental Health America of Central Carolinas for this honor and for creating space to elevate these conversations.

Mental health matters.

People matter.

And the way we lead matters 💚

What is a Mental Health Champion?

A Mental Health Champion is someone recognized for advocating for mental health awareness, education, and support within their community or workplace.

Why does workplace mental health matter?

Workplace mental health impacts employee wellbeing, engagement, communication, and overall workplace culture.

How can leaders support mental health in the workplace?

Leaders can support mental health by creating psychological safety, encouraging healthy communication, and leading with empathy and awareness.