I’ve worked at the University of Iowa for almost three decades. I can say with confidence that a supportive workplace makes a difference. By prioritizing mental health and openly discussing the importance of well-being, my goal is to model the supportive behaviors that reflect a workplace where we feel valued.

For me, having a colleague recently notice that I seemed a bit off and distracted was so helpful. I was struggling with health issues of my elderly parent. My colleague asked that simple question of “how are you doing – you seem a bit distracted” and then listened to my concerns. While this didn’t solve my issue, the act of checking in and listening made a difference to me.

Supervisors and managers play a crucial role in this effort. Their support is indispensable. By creating an environment that positively supports individuals, they make it the norm to check in and see if people are doing OK. Simple actions like regularly asking team members how they’re feeling make an impact. And when people believe their well-being is valued, they’re more likely to be engaged and satisfied with their work.

I’ve seen first-hand what happens when managers check in with their team and encourage their team to check in with each other. As part of the RU OK initiative, some managers have formally introduced this concept of “checking in” by bringing the content to their work groups. Feedback has been incredibly positive from these areas and includes:

• “Worthy program that reminds folks that it is OK to reach out and ask someone if they need some help.”
• “RU OK material is good …. It’s a difficult topic for people to understand and to acknowledge.”
• “Our team has been asking RUOK for a long time. It is so important. Thanks for formalizing the program for campus.”

Making it OK to talk about mental health and well-being helps break down barriers and fosters a sense of community. Providing resources and support for those who may be struggling is essential. This includes access to counseling services, well-being programs, and mental health training for staff and faculty.

Creating a caring culture is essential for our university community to thrive. When we back each other up—whether we’re dealing with challenges or celebrating successes—we increase community connection. This kind of environment encourages openness, reduces stigma, and promotes mental health and well-being. We all have the opportunity to ensure these values are woven into the fabric of our university life. If we commit to supporting one another, leading by example, and creating an environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued, we can make a difference in the lives of our colleagues and our students. Who are you going to ask, “Are you OK?”