World Mental Health Day is recognized globally on October 10 and serves as an opportunity to raise awareness, reduce stigma and encourage meaningful conversations about mental health and well-being.
At Protiviti, mental health is an essential part of overall well-being. It shapes how we think, feel, connect and show up for ourselves, our teams and our communities. Across the globe, our people may experience mental health in different ways based on culture, personal circumstances, work experiences and support systems. Still, one thing remains universal: everyone deserves to feel supported, understood and able to access resources when they need them.
In recognition of World Mental Health Day, we’re sharing a leadership spotlight that highlights the importance of prioritizing well-being, building supportive connections and creating a workplace where mental health can be discussed with empathy and care.
Leadership Spotlight
As Global Lead for ProMIND, Sophie Wall, Senior Internal Audit & Financial Advisory Consultant based in Houston, helps foster conversations, connection and resources that support mental health and well-being across Protiviti. In this leadership spotlight, Sophie shares what World Mental Health Day means to her, how she prioritizes her own well-being and why creating space for empathy, support and open dialogue matters in the workplace.
What does World Mental Health Day mean to you?
I see World Mental Health Day as a day dedicated to a topic that is often not prioritized or talked about enough. The fact that there is a globally recognized day centered around the importance of mental wellbeing reminds me how common mental health struggles are and how valuable human connection truly is.
How do you personally prioritize your mental health and well-being?
The best thing I did for my own mental health was taking a step back and understanding what made me feel happy and fulfilled outside of work. For me, it’s as simple as grabbing dinner with supportive friends, getting time outside with my dog, or even spending the night watching Real Housewives with a good coloring book. No matter what it is, I think there’s such power in knowing yourself enough to understand what you need to do to smile and recharge.
What role has connection or community played in supporting your well-being?
I will never forget the amount of support and the empathy given to me by my Protiviti colleagues during one of the hardest times of my life. Back in 2022, I was in a car accident that negatively impacted my mental health and changed the version of myself that I had known for 22 years. The day that I returned to the office, a Houston Managing Director that I had met maybe once saw me sitting at my desk and took the time to talk with me and acknowledge what I had experienced. To have someone come up to me and justify my emotions, relate to my experience, and appreciate the struggles I’d face in my own mental health was invaluable. That experience sticks out in my memory as the day I realized that Protiviti was not only special, but a firm that had a direct impact on getting me to the place I am now on my mental well-being journey.
Why is it important to reduce stigma around mental health conversations at work?
It’s important to recognize that none of us are robots, and the human elements we bring to work every day are the reason we’re here. Reducing the stigma around mental health helps create an environment where employees feel comfortable seeking support and empowered to uplift others.
What is one small action colleagues can take to support their own mental health or someone else’s?
When you have the extra 5 minutes, I’d encourage colleagues to take the opportunity during meetings with your team to move the conversation beyond the typical questions, such as, “How are you?” or “How was your weekend?”. I’ve found that the managers I’ve worked with have asked thoughtful questions about me and my life which made me feel heard and empowered me to bring the best work product to the project. When my mind is full of tasks and emails, sometimes a quick laugh or a chance to vent is enough to help me reset and return to work with a clearer perspective. I find that there’s nothing more encouraging and motivating than being truly heard and feeling like I matter on a project.
What advice would you share with someone who may be hesitant to ask for support?
I would remind this person that asking for support and taking the steps necessary to prioritize yourself is not a weakness or a reflection of your work ethic or character. Anything you need to do to improve your mental health (e.g., taking time off, meeting with a licensed professional, or sharing your experience with others) speaks to a strength of knowing yourself and acknowledging that you deserve an opportunity to care for yourself.
World Mental Health Day reminds us that supporting mental health is a shared responsibility. We all play a role in creating a culture where people feel respected, encouraged and safe to seek support.
Whether you take time to reflect on your own well-being, check in with a colleague, attend a session, explore available resources or simply pause to recharge, small actions can make a meaningful difference.
Together, we can continue building a workplace where well-being is prioritized, conversations are supported and our people can thrive.
