The EDGE, Malaysia - Feature: Peer Support in Leadership
Nick Jonsson, Managing Director of EGN Malaysia (Executives’ Global Network), was featured in one of Malaysia’s leading business publications on December 5th, 2022. The article highlighted Nick’s important contributions to leadership development and mental well-being in corporate environments, focusing on his insights drawn from years of working closely with executives across Asia.
In this feature, Nick shared that during his corporate career—and later through his work with senior leaders—he frequently observed the silent struggles many executives faced. Stress, anxiety, and depression were far more common than most organizations realized, yet these issues often went unspoken. Nick noted that mental health challenges in corporate settings were frequently overlooked, minimized, or misunderstood, creating a culture where people felt compelled to hide their emotions behind a façade of strength and professionalism.
One of the core issues Nick identified was the stigma that surrounds mental health in the workplace. This stigma fosters isolation, making individuals reluctant to share their experiences or seek help. Over time, the emotional burden impacts not only personal well-being but also job performance, decision-making ability, and overall organizational effectiveness. Nick highlighted that leaders themselves are often among the most affected, yet also the least likely to seek support due to expectations of strength and resilience.
The feature emphasized Nick’s belief that fostering open, honest conversations about mental health is essential in building healthier workplaces. He explained that organizations must create psychologically safe environments where employees feel comfortable expressing concerns without fear of judgment or professional repercussions. When this happens, individuals feel seen, supported, and understood—leading to healthier teams and stronger performance.
Nick also spoke about the broader organizational benefits of prioritizing mental well-being. Addressing mental health proactively allows companies to reduce burnout, increase engagement, and improve productivity. It also helps cultivate meaningful connections among team members, strengthening trust and collaboration. This cultural shift not only enhances individual well-being but also builds organizational resilience, enabling companies to thrive even in challenging times.
Ultimately, the article reinforced Nick’s message: meaningful progress begins when leaders lead with openness, empathy, and authenticity. By normalizing conversations around mental health, organizations can create sustainable change—benefiting employees, leaders, and the workplace as a whole.
