Prioritizing Mental Health in Community Association Management


Leslie Alvarez, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, LSM, Community ACE


The past several years have been indescribably stressful for everyone involved in community association management, including professionals, business partners, and homeowner leaders or community volunteers. Economic concerns after a pandemic, lack of socialization, mask-wearing, and general fear and anxiety have only increased the slow erosion of kindness and empathy we have seen devolve over the past few years.


In our industry, verbal and written abuse have reached new, unacceptable levels, and basic respect and common courtesy are no longer so common. We are told not to take the job personally, but it is personal. It’s our livelihood. It’s our reputation. It’s our name. It is very hard to not take insults and rudeness personally. Our health takes a toll.


Community managers, business partners, and volunteer leaders alike have experienced stress-induced health issues due to the demanding nature of their roles. It’s time for some important behavioral changes in the industry to ensure mental well-being for all involved.


Here are a few boundaries and tips for community management professionals, business partners, and homeowner leaders to establish and maintain a healthy work-life balance:


1. Establish an appointment-only policy. This applies to community managers and business partners. Establish the fact that you are a professional and require appointments. If your board opposes this concept, you can offer a schedule of “open-door” hours where walk-in traffic can access you freely.


2. Establish a weekly update meeting. Community managers can take control by scheduling a recurring weekly meeting with board members to give updates on pending projects and priorities for the week. Ideal participants are the president and the treasurer.


3. Schedule as many board meetings and committee meetings as possible during business hours. This may be a challenge for board members who have full- time jobs, but it helps maintain a professional atmosphere and respects everyone’s personal time.


4. When you leave the office, leave the office. Establish the understanding with your boards that while you are available for an emergency, you are not available for everything that strikes their fancy to talk to you about after hours.


5. Manage your email. An organized email inbox is imperative to your success.


14 July | August 2024


Use quick phone calls, texts, or Microsoft Teams messages for easy conversations to avoid unnecessary delays and frustration.


6. Manage your time effectively. Time block for big projects. Blocking time out to accomplish projects allows you to be focused on the actual task and project without feeling the need to multitask.


7. Prioritize your personal events. Make sure your personal schedule is a priority and is on your professional calendar. This way you won’t double-book yourself and miss important personal events.


For board members, directors, and committee members dealing with the stress of being responsible for the community in the face of members who expect the moon and the stars but don’t ever want to see assessments increase, here are some tips:


1. Communicate openly and transparently. Explain the reasons behind necessary assessment increases and the consequences of not implementing them. Use data and facts to support your decisions.


2. Educate homeowners. Provide regular updates on the community’s financial health, reserve studies, and upcoming projects. This helps homeowners understand the need for assessment increases and the value they receive for their money.


3. Delegate tasks. Don’t try to do everything yourself. Utilize committees and task forces to help with projects and decision-making. This not only alleviates stress but also engages more community members in the process.


4. Set boundaries. Establish clear guidelines for when and how homeowners can contact you. Encourage them to use proper channels, such as submitting requests or concerns in writing or during designated office hours.


5. Practice self-care. Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with family and friends. Taking care of yourself will help you better serve your community.


Let’s not just talk about change, let’s make it happen. By prioritizing mental health and well-being for all involved in community association management, we can create a more positive and supportive industry for everyone.


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