LANSING. — The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s (LEO) Labor Division launched LEADS (Learn, Educate, Act, Deploy, Study), a new statewide program that helps employers assess and improve mental health and well-being in the workplace. LEADS is a structured, evidence-based model that helps employers strengthen workplace mental health through education, engagement and measurable change.

“Keeping workers healthy — physically and mentally — is good for our families, our businesses and our economy,” said Susan Corbin, LEO Director. “Michigan is proud to lead the way in showing how mental health belongs at the center of workplace safety and success.”

LEO is recruiting employers now to enroll in the four-month pilot, which will begin in early 2026. The program will engage small- and mid-sized employers across Michigan, with a focus on those in areas of high socioeconomic needs. Participating organizations will complete assessments, receive expert-led training and implement workplace strategies to enhance communication, safety and support.

Employers participating in the program will designate a LEADS Champion to coordinate efforts, review policies and ensure mental health remains an ongoing organizational priority. The model emphasizes continuous improvement through data-driven evaluation, helping businesses measure progress and outcomes.

LEADS is part of LEO’s Healthy Work Healthy Mind initiative to support workplace mental health across the state. The initiative is setting a new national standard for workplace mental health by combining education, research and real-world action.

“Healthy Work Healthy Mind represents our next evolution in supporting working people and employers as they address the challenges of mental health in the workplace,” said LEO Deputy Director of Labor Sean Egan. “Over the past three years, we’ve built a strong foundation through research, education and collaboration. Now, with LEADS, we’re taking the next step — turning knowledge into action.”

Healthy Work Healthy Mind hosts monthly webinars, coordinates expert speakers across the state, publishes a comprehensive statewide report on workplace mental health and drives ongoing efforts that connect employers with tools and best practices to reduce workplace stress and improve resilience. The program proves that when Michigan invests in people’s mental health, the entire business community grows stronger.

LEO began its focused efforts on workplace mental health following Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s 2022 State of the State address, which called for expanded attention to mental health across Michigan communities.