Insights from Christina Izokovic on Personal and Professional Journey

Workplace conversations about mental health are evolving as more employers recognize the importance of prioritizing employees' well-being. While some companies are starting to open up these discussions, many still fall short in implementing meaningful solutions to support their teams. The stigma around mental health remains a challenge, making it essential to create safe, open spaces where employees feel comfortable addressing these issues.

The emotional and psychological well-being of employees is a top priority for many in the U.S. workforce. In a survey by the American Psychological Association, 92% of workers said it was “very” or “somewhat” important to them that their organization values mental wellness. Additionally, a Workforce Institute at UKG survey revealed that two-thirds of employees would even consider taking a pay cut for a job that prioritizes their mental health.

With a growing presence across social media platforms and a podcast that has already made waves, Christina Izokovic’s journey is one of consistently breaking stigma and creating meaningful connections. Through her personal and professional experiences, she has built a platform that inspires others to embrace their true selves while prioritizing mental well-being.

Why are safe workplaces important?

Creating a safe space for mental health conversations lets employees feel supported and gives them a chance to share their experiences and access helpful resources. When mental health is talked about openly, it helps reduce stigma and encourages others to speak up as well. This kind of environment leads to better focus and ultimately improves productivity and performance for the entire team.

For someone like Christina, who advocates for mental health and authenticity, safe workspaces align with her mission to create communities where individuals can openly discuss their struggles without fear of judgment. By building such environments, employees or members can thrive, knowing they have a safe space for vulnerability, healing, and personal growth.

Launched in February 2023, Why Not Be Authentic™ started as a podcast on Spotify and YouTube. It originally began on TikTok, where Christina went LIVE to share her mental health struggles in hopes of finding connection and building a supportive community. As her platform grew rapidly, she made the decision to leave her corporate job and launch the Why Not Be Authentic™️ podcast, creating an even larger space for open conversations and healing.

Soon the platform became a hub for meaningful discussions about mental health and authenticity. With over 2k subscribers on YouTube in less than a year, the podcast has resonated deeply with audiences looking for relatable and honest conversations. Season 3, set to launch in May 2025, promises a facelift, with new formats and features to keep listeners engaged and informed.

Christina’s vision for Why Not Be Authentic™ extends beyond the podcast. By May 2025, she plans to make the podcast available on all major platforms, broadening its reach and accessibility. This expansion is a testament to her commitment to spreading awareness and fostering community connections.

Self-Care is Important

Christina explains that self-care isn’t just about indulgence; but also creating a routine that nurtures your mental and emotional well-being. Make it a habit to engage in activities that help you recharge, like taking a walk in nature, reading, practicing mindfulness, or even enjoying a creative hobby. The goal is to give yourself permission to pause and focus on your needs, allowing you to manage stress and maintain balance, so you can show up as your best self every day.

Start Open Conversations

One of the most powerful ways to reduce the stigma around mental health is to talk about it openly. Start small by sharing your experiences with friends, family, or colleagues. As you create an environment where vulnerability is welcomed, it will encourage others to open up as well. This not only strengthens relationships but also fosters a deeper sense of community. When we normalize conversations about mental health, it becomes easier for everyone to ask for support when they need it.

Maintain Work-Life Balance

As a professional herself, she admits that it’s easy to get caught up in the demands of your job, but it's important to establish clear boundaries between your work and personal life.

Prioritize your time outside of work for relaxation, hobbies, and connecting with loved ones.

By maintaining a healthy balance, you’ll be able to recharge and return to your work with renewed energy and focus, helping prevent burnout and enhancing long-term career satisfaction.

Seek Support When Needed

She resigned from her role as a Senior Therapeutic Specialist at a Fortune 500 company to prioritize her mental health, driven by the lack of resources and understanding in the workplace.

Today, Christina often reminds in her work as well, that no one should have to navigate mental health challenges alone. Whether it's reaching out to a therapist, joining a support group, or confiding in a trusted friend, asking for help is a powerful step in the healing process.

Support is not a sign of weakness. The more you seek help, the more you realize that there’s strength in vulnerability. It’s a journey, and getting the right support can make all the difference in your healing and growth.