Implementing the STEP Method for Organizational Mental Health: A Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Framework

by Olena Derkach

Overview

"Implementing the STEP Method for Organizational Mental Health" by Olena Derkach delivers an influential, evidence-based framework for embedding mental well-being into workplace culture. As mental health concerns continue to rise across industries, driven by increased stress, burnout, and evolving workforce expectations. This book offers timely, strategic guidance for organizations seeking sustainable, long-term solutions.

The STEP Method Strategy, Training, Engagement, and Prevention serves as a practical roadmap for business leaders, HR professionals, and owners. It begins with Strategy, helping organizations assess internal needs, set mental health priorities, and align wellness goals with broader business objectives. Training empowers managers and employees to recognize mental health issues, lessen stigma, and foster open, psychologically safe communication. Engagement builds trust and transparency through inclusive conversation and shared ownership of workplace culture. Finally, Prevention promotes long-term resilience through proactive policies, work-life balance, and access to mental health resources that prevent burnout and absenteeism.

Derkach underlines a personalized approach, encouraging companies to tailor strategies to employee traits, work styles, and cultural diversity. Grounded in psychological research and real-world results, the STEP Method has led to measurable improvements in satisfaction, productivity, and organizational performance.

Whether you're leading a growing startup or managing a multinational enterprise, this book offers strategic insight and actionable tools to build a high-performing, mentally healthy workforce. It's not just a guide, it's a blueprint for the future of work.

"Strategy. Training. Engagement. Prevention. Your HR Roadmap to a Mentally Healthy Workplace Starts with One STEP".

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9798899795855
Publisher:	Olena Derkach
Publication date:	06/12/2025
Pages:	136
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.29(d)

About the Author

Olena Derkach is an internationally recognized expert in Human Resources and workplace mental health, with over 11 years of experience leading organizational transformation across North America and Europe. She holds a Master’s degree in Sociology and a Diploma in Human Resources Management and is professionally certified as a Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) in Canada and a Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) in the United States.
She is the creator of the STEP Method—a strategic, evidence-based framework that integrates Strategy, Training, Engagement, and Prevention to promote mental well-being in the workplace. The STEP Method has been successfully implemented in major corporations across North America and Europe, helping organizations reduce burnout, strengthen engagement, and create psychologically safe, high-performing work environments.
Olena’s contributions have earned her several prestigious honors. In 2024, she was awarded the Order of Queen Anne “Honor of the Fatherland,” one of Ukraine’s highest international public distinctions. This prestigious honor, jointly recognized by Ukrainian and French cultural institutions, celebrates individuals with exceptional achievements in professional excellence, education, and the advancement of international relations. Named after Queen Anne Yaroslavna, the daughter of Prince Yaroslav the Wise and Queen of France, the order symbolizes unity between Ukrainian and European cultures.
In 2025, Olena was also awarded the HR Leader of the Year title by the CatalyX Champions Series, a global awards platform recognizing exceptional professionals for their leadership in innovation, talent development, and sustainable people strategy.
In this book, Olena shares the strategies and practical tools that help organizations place employee mental health at the core of sustainable success. She highlights how prioritizing mental well-being is not only a moral imperative, but a strategic business advantage—leading to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, stronger retention, and a more resilient workforce. Her work empowers leaders to build cultures of trust, empathy, and innovation—because when employees are mentally well, organizations thrive.