Building Resilient Teams: The role of mental health and wellbeing training in the workplace

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Workplaces today have evolved significantly. Organisation cultures are increasingly prioritising people over rigid hierarchies and outdated “power through” attitudes. Mental health training plays a vital role in this shift—not as a quick fix, but as a meaningful, long-term investment in building resilience.

In this blog, we’ll explore why mental health and wellbeing training should be near the top of your workplace agenda, how it builds resilient teams, and the practical steps you can take with +IMPAC to foster well-being across your organisation. 

Why mental health training matters

Research shows that mental health is New Zealand’s most pressing workplace challenge, with 81.9% of organisations citing it as a top concern. Further, one in five employees will face a mental health challenge each year. That’s not just a statistic—it’s the colleague who suddenly goes quiet, the team leader who snaps instead of smiles, or the usually upbeat employee who’s “fine” until they’re unexpectedly off for weeks. These aren’t isolated events; they’re warning signs, often missed because we lack the knowledge or confidence to respond.

Mental health training bridges this gap. It equips teams with the tools to recognise early signs of distress, open supportive conversations, and respond with empathy—not as therapists, but as colleagues who care.

Why does this matter to businesses? Because the costs of doing nothing are significant. Poor mental health can drive higher absenteeism, increased turnover, and reduced productivity. And then there’s the hidden cost: a workplace culture that breeds burnout and disconnection.

By prioritising mental health training, companies aren’t just safeguarding their bottom line; they’re creating workplaces where people feel valued, supported, and eager to contribute. 

+IMPAC’s commitment to workplace wellbeing: a closer look at our workshops

At +IMPAC, we believe a healthy workplace is one where everyone thrives—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. That’s why our mental health and wellbeing  training isn’t just a checkbox exercise. It’s immersive, practical, and designed to address real-world challenges with proven strategies. Here’s a look at what we offer:

Workplace Wellbeing

Duration: One day

This full-day training is ideal for those with direct responsibility for their organisation’s wellbeing, from HR professionals to team leaders and beyond. It’s more than just an overview—it’s a toolkit for creating workplaces where people feel supported and valued.

What you’ll learn:

• How to identify early warning signs of mental health issues and burnout.

• Practical methods to build a culture of support and openness in your workplace.

• Strategies for fostering long-term employee well-being through proactive policies and interventions.

Participants leave the course with actionable insights and a clear understanding of how to weave mental health considerations into the fabric of their organisation. This isn’t about theory; it’s about meaningful change.

Learn more about this course.

De-escalation techniques workshop

Duration: Half a day

Frontline workers often face the brunt of heated situations—angry customers, stressed clients, or tense colleagues. This interactive workshop equips participants with tools to navigate these encounters calmly and effectively, diffusing aggression before it escalates.

What you’ll learn:

• Techniques to manage verbal confrontations without losing control or escalating conflict.

• Communication skills to de-escalate situations while maintaining professionalism and empathy.

• How to recognise triggers that could lead to aggression and respond proactively.

This session is hands-on and practical, using real-life scenarios to prepare attendees for challenges they might face both in and out of the workplace.

Find out more about this workshop.

Mental Health First Aid Aotearoa

Duration: Two days

This comprehensive programme takes a deeper dive into mental health, equipping participants to become certified Mental Health First Aiders. Whether it’s a colleague showing signs of anxiety or a friend facing a crisis, this course ensures you’re prepared to offer meaningful support.

What you’ll learn:

• How to recognise signs of mental distress, from anxiety to depression and more acute conditions.

• Steps to provide immediate and practical assistance until professional help is available.

• Ways to reduce stigma and promote open dialogue around mental health in your workplace or community.

With a focus on empathy and understanding, participants finish the course ready to provide vital support in challenging situations.

Learn more about becoming a Mental Health First Aider.

Online options: pre-recorded webinars

Not everyone can attend in-person workshops—but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on transformative learning opportunities. +IMPAC’s online training options bring expert knowledge straight to your screen, offering practical, self-paced courses that fit around your schedule.

Our De-escalation Techniques Webinar equips you with the skills to manage and defuse aggressive or tense interactions calmly and professionally. Over four self-paced hours, you’ll learn how to stay composed under pressure, identify triggers, and apply proven strategies to resolve conflicts effectively.

Meanwhile, the Workplace Wellbeing Webinar dives into the essentials of fostering mental health in the workplace. This course provides tools to evaluate your organisation’s wellbeing initiatives, enhance team resilience, and promote a culture of trust and positivity—all in just four hours of flexible online learning.

Both courses are designed for accessibility without compromising quality, making them perfect for busy professionals who want to upskill at their own pace. With +IMPAC’s online training, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to handle workplace challenges—on your terms.

Why choose +IMPAC for mental health training?

At +IMPAC, we don’t just provide training; we empower people. Our courses are designed for New Zealand workplaces, blending local expertise with proven global strategies. From half-day workshops to intensive two-day certifications, +IMPAC offers options to suit every schedule and role. Whether you're on the frontlines or in a leadership position, our training equips you with the confidence and knowledge to make a real difference.

To learn more about our mental health training options, visit our course catalogue or get in touch. Together, let’s create workplaces where everyone can thrive.