In Episode 3 of A Matter of Culture, Reem and Sula dive into a topic close to their hearts — mental health at work, especially in the Middle East. They tackle the stigma head-on, chatting about why it’s so crucial to normalize these conversations and how the pandemic shook up HR pros everywhere. With a mix of personal stories and fresh insights, they explore creating safe spaces, leading with emotional intelligence, and navigating the ripple effects of global events like the horrific Palestinian genocide. It’s all about empathy, listening, and stepping up together to build workplaces where everyone feels supported.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses mental health challenges and the impact of global conflicts, which may be sensitive for some listeners.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:27 Mental Health in the Workplace

01:55 Stigma and Cultural Perceptions

05:52 Impact of the Pandemic on HR

10:50 Leadership and Empathy

13:49 Personal Stories and Reflections

24:23 Better Done Than Perfect: Embracing Imperfection

25:26 Mental Health in the Workplace: Finding Common Ground

26:53 Supporting Each Other: The Power of Words

28:58 Vulnerability and Self-Reflection

32:25 Global Events and Their Impact on Mental Health

34:12 Creating Safe Spaces in the Workplace

41:27 Addressing Gossip and Emotional Vulnerability

47:41 Concluding Thoughts: Duty of Care and Kindness

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