Prioritising Mental Health in the Salon: Supporting Your Staff During Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a crucial reminder that well-being goes beyond physical health. As salon owners, we often focus on the outer beauty of our clients, but it's equally important to nurture the inner wellness of our team. The salon floor can be an intense environment—long hours, emotional labour, back-to-back appointments—and without the right support, it can take a toll on mental health.

Here’s how you can create a healthier, more supportive workplace for your staff this month—and every month:

1. Start the Conversation

Mental health is still a sensitive topic for many. As a leader, your openness sets the tone.

• Normalise mental health check-ins just like you would ask about physical health.
• Share resources openly and encourage staff to speak up if they're struggling.

2. Create a Supportive Culture

Salon staff are often caregivers by nature, giving emotional energy to clients. But who supports them?

• Build a culture of empathy and understanding. If someone is having a tough day, offer space and support without judgment.
• Celebrate the wins, no matter how small.
• Promote teamwork over competition.

3. Be Flexible Where Possible

Burnout is real in the beauty and hair industry.

• Allow flexibility in scheduling to help with work-life balance.
• Encourage proper breaks during shifts.
• If possible, offer a personal day each quarter for mental recharge—no questions asked.

4. Train Your Managers (and Yourself)

Leaders are often the first point of contact for staff stress.

• Provide basic mental health training for salon managers and team leads.
• Learn to spot signs of burnout, anxiety, or depression.
• Offer guidance on how to respond compassionately and effectively.

5. Offer Access to Professional Help

While you're not expected to be a therapist, you can be a connector.

• Share contact info for local counsellors if available.
• Partner with a mental health organisation to offer workshops or discounted services.
• Provide printed or digital materials in the staff area for private access.

6. Lead by Example

Your team takes cues from you. If you prioritise your own mental health, they’ll feel more empowered to do the same.

• Take your breaks.
• Speak honestly about the importance of self-care.
• Model healthy boundaries with clients and staff alike.

Investing in your staff’s mental well-being isn’t just good ethics—it’s good business. Happy, supported staff are more engaged, creative, and loyal. This Mental Health Awareness Month, commit to making your salon not just a beautiful space on the outside, but a safe and healthy one on the inside too.

20/05/2025