Squiggly Careers CEO Shell-Shedding Moments: Opening Up about Mental Health at Work with Zaid Al-Qassab
Feb 2, 2026
Zaid Al-Qassab, a CEO and marketing leader who speaks openly about managing depression at work. He describes why he chose to disclose his mental health, the surprising reactions and privilege that shaped that choice. He talks about adjusting communication, learning while vulnerable, and practical ways to use mentors and trusted colleagues for support.
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What CEOs Actually Spend Their Time On
- CEOs split time between future strategy, people/capability decisions, and investor relations.
- Much of a CEO’s work is invisible to day-to-day employees.
Choosing To Be Open About Depression
- Zaid decided to open up at work about living with depression after hiding it for about ten years.
- He worried deeply about how colleagues would perceive his fitness for leadership before disclosing it.
Prevalence Vs. Silence On Mental Health
- Mental health remains taboo despite prevalence; roughly a quarter of people face challenges in a year.
- Visibility is low so normalising disclosure can change workplace understanding.
