When local government employees leave, why?  

It's a question every leadership team should ask, not just during exit interviews but as part of an ongoing conversation about culture and retention.  

More often than not, the answer isn't just about salary or workload. It's about the day-to-day experience of working in the organization. Employees don't leave "jobs." They leave bad workplace experiences.  

Culture, how employees feel, how they're treated, and whether they feel valued ultimately play major parts in whether they stay or go. One of the biggest, often overlooked factors shaping that experience is mental health and wellness.  

That's why we brought an expert to ICMA's Voices in Local Government podcast. My co-host, Joe Supervielle, and I recently spoke with Adrienne Wise, trauma-informed care consultant and CEO of Wise Choice Counseling and Consulting Services, who has worked with local governments nationwide. Her message is clear: mental health is not a side issue. It's a leadership issue. And it directly impacts retention.  

Mental Health Shapes Culture and Retention  

Workplace anxiety and imposter syndrome are more common than many leaders realize. And when left unaddressed, they weigh on employees' engagement and well-being.  

"You can't just flip the switch when you show up to work," Wise explained. "It wears on you like a badge of Velcro. Everything sticks to you."  

Unchecked stress and burnout impact how people collaborate, perform, and whether they choose to stay. Supporting mental health isn't just about individual well-being. It's foundational to building a strong, high-retention culture.  

Trauma-Informed Leadership in Action  

Wise says trauma-informed leadership isn't about sacrificing accountability. It's about creating an environment where people can do their best work, free from unnecessary stress or re-traumatization.  

"There's a better and healthier way to lead," Wise said. "We want staff to stay long-term. You can hold people accountable and still lead with empathy and respect."  

When leaders foster trust and psychological safety, they help their teams thrive. That directly impacts retention.  

Boundaries Prevent Burnout  

Burnout remains one of the most common challenges in local government workplaces, especially in lean organizations where people wear multiple hats. 

"Leaders can't control everything," Wise noted. "They're not superheroes. Boundaries are key."  

When leaders model healthy boundaries, they give staff permission to do the same. Burnout prevention starts at the top, and clear boundaries help people sustain their passion for public service.  

As my colleague Joe Supervielle put it, "Sometimes you can go the extra mile and feel great about it. Other times, it's what pushes you toward burnout. You have to know where that line is."  

Peer Support Builds Resilience  

Leadership sets the tone, but peer support is an important part of a healthy workplace culture.  

"Listening is powerful," Wise said. "And helping your peers find solutions is even more powerful."  

Everyday interactions between colleagues shape culture. When teams cultivate empathy and constructive support, they build resilience and foster stronger retention.  

Even small efforts can have a big impact. Wise shared one creative example: a simple workplace "salad club" where coworkers gathered to share meals and conversation, building community and well-being in the process.  

Retention Starts with Culture  

Retention isn't just about maintaining stable numbers. It's about creating a workplace where people feel safe, supported, and valued, where they can thrive and want to stay.  

Mental health is a core part of that equation.  

"Don't be afraid to talk about the things that make you uncomfortable," Wise advised. "A lot of what's at the base of the challenges you're seeing is unaddressed trauma. You've got to step into the uncomfortable."  

For local governments striving to become high-performing, high-retention organizations, this is where the work begins.  

For more insights from Adrienne Wise, subscribe to ICMA's Voices in Local Government Podcast to catch the full mental health interview coming soon!