Have you ever said yes to an invitation when you really wanted to say no? Spent way too long editing a simple text to avoid upsetting someone? Pretended to like something you hated because you felt so uncomfortable disagreeing?  This article is for you.

Words like “Man up,” and “Boys don’t cry,” gradually teach boys to hide their emotions, to stay quiet when they’re hurting, and to be “strong” no matter what they’re feeling inside. Slowly, it creates a negative impact on our mental health and the way we relate to our emotions for years to come.

Mental health might not be listed as an “official” love language — but maybe it should be.

It’s noticing. It’s holding space. It’s choosing to care — when no one’s watching, when it’s not easy, when it’s not cute.

Organisations are often pressed to remain relevant by maximising profits and putting business needs first. However, organisational cultures can strongly influence employee wellbeing and even indirectly improve profit margins.

Drawing from the practices of organisations worldwide, here are some key actions the leadership in organisations can take to make the transition after mental health leave smoother. 

“What kind of love is it that the person being loved can’t live the way they want to? ” In Confucian culture, we are taught of filial piety and unconditional obedience towards the elders in the family because they only want the best for us. In such a cultural context, all the toxic behaviours–over-control, emotional manipulation, constant guilt-tripping–are justified as “love”.