Confidentiality key for companies looking to support mental health

Continuing our coverage of Mental Health Awareness Month, Pete Smith, founder of Confyde, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the platform’s development, its application in sports and business and the importance of confidential mental health support.

Confyde emerged from Smith's experiences as a professional rugby player and coach, where he witnessed firsthand the mental health challenges athletes face. The platform provides an anonymous pathway for individuals to seek support while allowing organizations to monitor overall mental health trends. Smith said that Confyde fills a gap between mental health education and professional counseling services, enabling early intervention and proactive management of employee well-being.

The platform's success in sports, particularly in helping identify struggling individuals who may not outwardly show signs of distress, led to its expansion into the corporate and construction industries. Smith highlighted the construction industry as a key focus area, given its high rates of mental health issues and death by suicide. He added that Confyde's approach allows companies to gather data on factors impacting employee performance and workplace culture while maintaining individual privacy.

Finally, Smith stressed the importance of regular check-ins and follow-ups when supporting someone's mental health. He encouraged listeners to initiate conversations with colleagues, friends and family members, noting that the seemingly happy individuals may be the people struggling silently. To learn more about Confyde’s platform, visit their website, Confyde.io.

Listen to the full episode above to hear more from Smith and learn about Confyde's approach to supporting mental health through confidentiality in the workplace.