Addressing employee mental health can often feel taboo to executive coaches who are unsure how to approach it. Rather than shying away, challenge yourself to learn about your employees, prepare resources to support them, and create a culture of wellness they trust.

John was working with his client Alice to formulate an action plan. “I’m just not in the mood to do any long-term planning right now,” Alice said. John picked up on the signal: “Have you been having thoughts of suicide?” “Yes.” Mary was rehearsing for an interview. Her coach, Tom, noted her mounting frustration about explaining the path her life …