The hidden toll: Mental health challenges faced by leaders

In today’s fast-paced business environment, the mental health of CEOs often goes unnoticed, despite its critical impact on both their personal well-being and the success of their companies. The CEO role is marked by constant decision-making, long hours, and immense pressure to perform—all of which can take a toll on mental health. MaltaCEOs.mt spoke with psychologist Claire Camilleri and Daniela Calleja Bitar, CEO of Richmond Foundation, to explore how leaders can maintain their well-being while managing the demands of their roles.

The stress of leadership

Leading a company carries significant responsibilities, often resulting in high levels of stress. According to psychologist Claire Camilleri, a 2024 Businessolver study revealed that more than half of CEOs face mental health difficulties. The relentless demand to maintain control, safeguard the company’s reputation, and meet high expectations can lead to overwhelming pressure. Ms Camilleri noted that CEOs frequently contend with an unspoken expectation of infallibility, an impossible standard to meet. As a result, many experience fatigue, anxiety, burnout, and even physical health problems.

Daniela Calleja Bitar echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of recognising early signs of mental strain. “A few years ago, I went through a period of physical illness that taught me to listen to my body. Now, I apply the same approach to my mind.” Exercise, spending quality time with family, and regular therapy sessions have become essential to maintaining her mental health. She stressed that mental well-being should be part of every leader’s self-care routine, even when not facing an immediate crisis.

The cost of overwork

Overworking is often glorified in corporate culture, and many CEOs fall into the trap of relentless schedules. Ms Camilleri highlighted that this can lead to poor performance over time, with CEOs suffering from burnout, loss of identity, and detachment from their roles. The impact is not only professional but personal, with many CEOs growing distant from their families and missing out on significant milestones.

Ms Calleja Bitar acknowledged that stress is inevitable but stressed the importance of delegation. “Delegation is not just about business efficiency; it’s about managing my mental load. Empowering my team to take ownership of projects helps me avoid burnout.” Building a reliable support network, including family, friends, and mentors, is also key to staying resilient during difficult times.

Recognising early warning signs

Mental health issues don’t appear overnight; they develop gradually. CEOs, driven by a strong sense of duty, often overlook the early signs. According to Ms Camilleri, warning signals include difficulty sleeping, excessive fatigue, irritability, weight fluctuations, and increased reliance on negative coping mechanisms, such as alcohol or gambling. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to more severe conditions, including panic attacks or addiction.

Ms Calleja Bitar emphasised the importance of recognising these signs early. “Just as we all know the symptoms of a cold, I’ve learned to spot when my mental health needs attention,” she said. For her, addressing these warning signs means prioritising exercise, spending quality time with loved ones, and most importantly, making space for self-care.

The role of work-life balance

A key aspect of managing mental health is maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Ms Camilleri highlighted that CEOs should consciously schedule self-care activities and set clear boundaries between their professional and personal lives. Without these boundaries, the risk of burnout increases significantly.

This view is shared by Ms Calleja Bitar, who makes an effort to disconnect from work in the evenings and on weekends. “Doing so helps me recharge and be present with my family, allowing me to return to work with renewed energy,” she said. She also fosters a culture of balance within her organisation, where employees feel supported and valued.

Effective stress management

Managing stress as a CEO requires a blend of awareness, planning, and effective stress management techniques. Ms Camilleri recommends prioritising sleep, taking regular breaks, and engaging in physical activity to relieve stress. She advises against relying on quick fixes like caffeine or naps, which can mask the need for proper rest.

Ms Calleja Bitar highlighted the value of pausing before reacting to high-pressure situations. “Taking a step back gives me clarity and perspective, reducing the emotional toll,” she shared. Surrounding herself with a competent team, delegating responsibilities, and seeking advice from mentors are some of the strategies she uses to manage stress and prevent burnout.

Creating a culture of openness

Both Ms Camilleri and Ms Calleja Bitar agree on the importance of normalising mental health discussions in the workplace. Ms Calleja Bitar believes that being open about mental health encourages others to do the same, leading to a healthier and more productive company culture. At Richmond Foundation, she has implemented mental health resources, including an Employee Assistance Programme and weekly supervision sessions, and encourages other leaders to follow suit.

“When business leaders talk openly about mental health, it sends a powerful message that it’s okay not to be okay,” she said. “This kind of openness builds a culture of trust where employees feel comfortable discussing their own mental health needs.”

By adopting self-care practices, recognising early warning signs, and creating supportive work environments, CEOs can protect their mental health and lead their companies more effectively. As Ms Calleja Bitar aptly put it: “Prioritising mental health is not just about surviving; it’s about thriving.”