Workplace Outcomes After Mental Health Disclosure: The Critical Influence of Supervisor Reactions

Supervisor reactions to employee mental health condition disclosure were found to be significantly associated with work ability, intent to stay, and perceived mental health stigma at work for disclosing employees. Noting the limitations surrounding making causal inferences, these findings emphasise the pivotal role of the supervisor in facilitating a positively perceived disclosure experience that is associated with positive employee outcomes and well-being following disclosure. In particular, training to prepare for disclosure events and respond appropriately could be an effective approach to create a work environment in which employees feel safe to disclose, actively reduce mental health stigma in the workplace, and improve work outcomes.