Stacy Stellflug is an Associate Professor at the University of Montana-Bozeman and Kee Dunning is a clinical professional counselor with her own consultancy practice in Billings, Montana. Both specialise in mental health and identifying and treating conditions such as anxiety and depression.
In this video, Stacy and Kee share their best advice for superintendents and golf industry professionals in recognizing signs of mental health-related issues and what to do next...
Stay and Kee became involved with golf when their friend, a local veteran superintendent, reached out for help having suffered a mental breakdown.
They explain why golf course leaders and superintendents have a responsibility to create a safe environment where employees feel they can share if they are struggling, without fear of judgement or even losing their job.
Be open and approachable. Create safe spaces for people to come forward
Encourage team members to speak up if they're struggling
Listen and show empathy and understanding when someone comes forward with a mental health issue
"At the end of the day, it's important to know that it's okay to not be okay"
What Syngenta thinks...
Syngenta has been shining a light on mental health challenges faced by people in the turf industry for a number of years. In 2021, we surveyed greenkeepers, PGA professionals and club managers and found that more than 60% had experienced increased work-related mental health problems in the previous year. Three out of the 256 respondents had even considered suicide or self-harming.
It showed a clear gap between the prevalence of mental health problems and the level of support available. We have addressed it in our own organisation by having accredited Mental Health First Aiders in the team, and we have supported industry initiatives including the online Mindful Leadership Sessions by the Carolinas Golf Course Superintendents Association.
But, as Stacy and Kee point out, we need to encourage a culture where people are not afraid to seek help if they are struggling, and they know who to turn to.
Connect with Stacy & Kee
Useful Links
- Paul MacCormack: The Mindful Superintendent
- Jim Croxton Podcast: The Challenges Faced by Greenkeepers
- Turf Challenges highlighted at recent event
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