#121 Nurturing Organizational Wellbeing: Insights from Tara Davis of the American Psychological Association

In the latest episode of the Mental Health Today podcast hosted by Ken Stearns, Tara Davis, the Senior Director of Internal Communications & Staff Wellbeing at the American Psychological Association (APA), joins as a guest to shed light on the critical intersection of employee mental health and organizational success. With nearly two decades of experience, Tara brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the discussion, sharing insights garnered from her extensive career in industrial organizational psychology, wellness, HR, and internal communications.

Throughout the episode, Tara emphasizes the importance of adopting a science-led, empathy-based approach to address the complex challenges surrounding employee mental health and wellbeing. In her role at the APA, she utilizes a comprehensive strategy that intertwines internal communications with employee wellbeing initiatives, aiming to create a work environment that promotes both psychological and physical health. By leveraging foundational principles of science, measurement, and employee feedback, Tara designs programs that empower employees to prioritize their wellbeing while also driving organizational impact.

Tara highlights APA's overarching mission of using and advancing psychological science to improve people's lives, both internally within the organization and externally in society. With a membership base of over 120,000 psychologists, practitioners, scientists, and educators, APA plays a pivotal role in shaping policies, conducting research, and disseminating information to address pressing societal issues related to mental health.

One of the key initiatives Tara discusses is APA's Stress in America survey, which tracks the evolving landscape of stressors impacting individuals, families, and communities, particularly in the wake of events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Through data-driven approaches such as employee experience surveys and focus groups, APA strives to gain deeper insights into the needs and preferences of its workforce, enabling the organization to tailor interventions and support systems accordingly.

Moreover, Tara underscores the importance of fostering a workplace culture that prioritizes employee wellbeing as a foundational element of organizational success. By soliciting input from employees and actively involving them in decision-making processes, organizations can create a sense of ownership and empowerment among their workforce, leading to higher levels of engagement, satisfaction, and productivity.

In addition to her professional insights, Tara shares personal anecdotes and experiences that underscore her passion for helping others and making a meaningful impact in the workplace. She encourages listeners to connect with her on LinkedIn or Twitter (@letswearlove) and explore APA's extensive resources, including research findings, educational materials, and podcasts, aimed at promoting mental health and wellbeing.

In conclusion, Tara Davis's interview on the Mental Health Today podcast provides a compelling overview of the critical role that internal communications and employee wellbeing initiatives play in fostering a supportive and thriving workplace culture. Her blend of expertise, empathy, and commitment to social justice serves as an inspiring example for organizations seeking to prioritize employee mental health and create environments where employees and organizations can truly thrive.

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Disclaimer: The views stated in this episode are our guest's opinions and do not necessarily represent the views, beliefs, or opinions of Mental Health Today With. Our goal is to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around mental health by sharing our platform with professionals in the space. That being said, our guests are not a representation of Mental Health Today or The Jar Foundation.