14 May „Looking Instead of Looking Away“ – An Interview with Marion Kaiser on Mental Health

Mental health is a highly relevant and increasingly urgent topic. Yet too often, people still look away. This often stems from uncertainty and a lack of confidence in dealing with individuals who are struggling psychologically. “Looking Instead of Looking Away” is the title of our new C-TO-BE training. It is about not leaving people alone, but helping guide them toward support. Marion Kaiser is a C-TO-BE trainer and coach and has been working for many years as an instructor in corporate health management, focusing on mental health in organizations.

Why do we need mental health training in companies more than ever today?

Marion: Mental health conditions have long become part of everyday working life. Nearly one third of adults in Germany are affected each year. Many people continue to function externally, even though they are already under significant internal pressure. That is exactly why early awareness is so important. Companies can make a huge difference when colleagues learn to recognize warning signs and to have conversations safely, instead of looking away due to uncertainty.
 
What is the training “Looking Instead of Looking Away” specifically about?

Marion: The training provides a kind of “first aid for mental health.” Participants learn to better understand psychological strain, recognize red flags, and hold supportive conversations without taking on a therapeutic role. At the same time, it is about gaining confidence in handling difficult situations, such as panic attacks, overwhelm, or suicidal thoughts.

Many people are afraid of saying the wrong thing in such unfamiliar situations. What do you recommend?

Marion: That fear is completely natural. That is exactly why we practice real-life conversation scenarios in the training. Often, it is not about perfect wording. Much more important is genuine interest, empathetic listening, and the willingness to stay present. A simple sentence like “I’m worried about you” can make an enormous difference.
 
What changes in the way people deal with those affected through “Looking Instead of Looking Away”?

Marion: There is greater psychological safety. People talk about stress and strain earlier, managers respond more consciously, and colleagues feel less alone. At the same time, stigma is reduced. Mental health shifts from being a taboo topic to a shared responsibility.
 
Feel free to contact us if you would like to offer this training in your organization or participate in it.