April Simpkins: Mind Matters: Fostering Mental Wellness in the Workplace

April Simpkins, PHR, SHRM-CP, is a well-known American Former Model, Head of Beauty Event, Professional Speaker, Entrepreneur, DEI Strategist, and Chief Human Resources Officer. She is the mother of Cheslie Kryst, American television correspondent with “Extra”, model, Miss North Carolina 2019, Miss USA 2019 and former Poyner Spruill attorney that earned both her law degree and MBA from Wake Forest University and bachelor’s degree from the Honors College at the University of South Carolina. Cheslie suffered from high-functioning depression and died by suicide at age 30.

In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environments, mental health and wellness have become critical to organizational success and employee well-being. We will delve into the nuanced landscape of mental health in the workplace, offering insights, strategies, and best practices for fostering a supportive and thriving work culture.

According to the National Alliance For Mental Illness (NAMI), 1 in 5 adults experiences mental illness each year. We, as leaders and peers, should learn how to support others experiencing mental health challenges meaningfully. This presentation will inspire dialogue, collaboration, and meaningful action towards creating mentally healthy workplaces where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their full potential.

This presentation will include the following:

• Tips on creating a safe space where it’s okay not to be okay.
• How to intertwine supporting coworker’s mental health into the company culture.
• Five ways to protect your mental health so you thrive in your personal life and professional roles.