Stigma: Changing the Conversation on Mental Health in the Workplace

Introduction

• Presenter: Ariana Vargas
• Context: Pitch on a competition show
• Objective: Presenting an idea to change the world regarding mental health discussions

The Problem

• Difficulty Discussing Mental Health:
  • Generally hard, especially at work
  • Even harder in public settings like a pitch show
• Current Workplace Mental Health Statistics:
  • $225 billion loss in productivity for U.S. employers last year due to poor mental health
  • Employers' responses include providing more checks, apps, and benefits
  • Challenge: Low utilization of these resources

The Solution: Stigma

• Company Name: Stigma
• Mission: Using storytelling to change how mental health is perceived and discussed
• Approach:
  • Provide companies with content and stories
  • Destigmatize mental health conversations in the workplace
  • Connect employees with existing company-provided benefits and services

Fundraising

• Goal: Raise $1 million
• Purpose: Implement storytelling strategy in workplace settings

Conclusion

• Vision: Transform workplace culture surrounding mental health
• Impact: Improve utilization of mental health benefits, reduce productivity loss