Disclosing Mental Health Challenges: A Leader Follower Comparison

Abstract

Organizations and scholars are increasingly interested in why people disclose mental health challenges (MHCs) at work. This study examined whether one’s work role (leader or follower) influences one’s willingness to disclose MHCs at work. We predicted leaders would be less likely than followers to disclose MHCs, and that the desire to promote leader prototypes would mediate this relationship. We further hypothesized that personal conditions (gender, stigma) would strengthen, while contextual conditions (health climate, affective trust) would attenuate, this relationship. Four hundred twelve leaders and followers completed an online questionnaire. Results indicated leaders are less willing to disclose MHCs than followers. However, contrary to predictions, leaders aspire to promote leadership prototypes at work more than followers and this increases their future willingness to disclose MHCs. No moderation effects emerged. This research contributes to the leadership and mental health literature and offers insights for organizations wishing to support employees’ access to resources.