Fostering Mental Well-being in Community Association Management

Community association management, while rewarding, faces pervasive challenges like burnout and mental health issues, according to an article by the Community Associations Institute. Bill Overton from Desert Resort Management seeks to destigmatize mental health struggles in the industry. Recognizing the prevalence of mental health issues, Overton highlights that 21% of U.S. adults faced mental illness in the past year.

Mental health struggles also have financial implications for employers due to high turnover rates. Stress, often unspoken in professional environments, can lead to severe health complications and is a significant contributor to crises like suicide.

Overton notes that the community management profession attracts high-performing individuals who may hide their struggles. The culture rewards those who take on challenging tasks without seeking help, leading to burnout, which can range from inconvenient to fatal.

To address these issues, Overton advocates for a shift in awareness, emphasizing that everyone’s mental health is equally important. Organizations need to restructure work environments to support self-care. Individuals should prioritize understanding their mental health needs and take steps like seeking counseling, spending time outdoors, getting more sleep, or adopting healthy habits.

Overton stresses the importance of open conversations about mental health, urging people to move beyond superficial responses like “Feel better.” The Community Association Managers Council and CAI focus on developing resources, such as the Community Association Managers Wellness Guide and webinars, to help managers adopt healthier approaches to both personal and professional lives. Prioritizing mental well-being involves acknowledging the struggles, supporting each other, and fostering a culture that encourages open dialogue about mental health.