Does your workplace need a mental health boost? See how this free Birmingham event can help

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Leading a team is challenging, especially when stress and mental health struggles take a toll on your employees. This September, two local coalitions are teaming up to host a free event giving Birmingham employers, managers and business leaders practical tools and expert advice to boost workplace well-being.

Read on for event details, how to sign up and practical ways this event can help your team thrive and succeed.

Why this conversation matters in Birmingham

With more companies mandating a return to office, employees—including those across Birmingham—are feeling the weight of an always-on work culture. The result? A growing amount of time is devoted to job demands.

That’s why mental health and substance use aren’t just personal issues—they’re affecting teams, productivity and workplace culture across our city.

So, how is mental health faring in our state? Mental health remains a growing concern.

Here are some quick stats from a 2022-2023 study by Addiction Treatment Magazine:

• Alabama had the 6th highest increase in reported mental health issues from 2022–2023, showing a sharp rise in need.
• 36.9% of adults reported mental health struggles—10 points higher than the national average.
• In 2022, 840 lives were lost to suicide in Alabama, and an estimated 90% of these individuals likely experienced symptoms of a mental health condition (National Alliance on Mental Illness).

The good news: Addiction Prevention Coalition (APC) and Alabama Suicide Prevention & Resources Coalition (ASPARC) are working to change this. With deep roots in Birmingham and a common goal of supporting mental health in the workplace, the two groups strive to break stigma, build awareness and equip local businesses with resources.

Now, they’re teaming up to host Mind Matters: A Conversation on Mental Health, Substance Use and the Workplace on September 26.

What participants will gain

Work stress affects everyone, regardless of their job—whether it’s due to long hours, tight deadlines or the constant juggling of work and home responsibilities.

That’s where the Mind Matters event comes in. The event welcomes everyone from CEOs to HR managers and team leaders, offering practical solutions to recognize challenges and actively support their teams.

During the event, participants will:

• Hear from local + national experts on substance use + suicide trends.
• Learn strategies for supporting mental health in the workplace.
• Receive training on how to administer Narcan.
• Discover how Birmingham businesses are preserving their teams’ mental health. 

Event details

• What: Mind Matters: A Conversation on Mental Health, Substance Use and the Workplace
• When: Friday, September 26 | 9AM-2PM
• Where: Jefferson State Community College—Judy M. Merritt Building, 4801 Jaguar Dr, Birmingham, AL 35242
• Cost: Free admission | Donations accepted

Whether you’re a CEO, HR manager, small business owner or team leader, register for free to reserve your spot. 

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