A growing body of evidence highlights a concerning trend: an elevated prevalence of narcissistic and psychopathic traits among top leaders, with dire consequences for the mental health of employees. Dark leadership - a leadership style characterised by behaviours that are harmful to individuals and organisations – is consistently linked to an increase in stress, anxiety, depression, reduced job satisfaction and high employee turnover rates. Toxic leadership can create environments characterised by fear, mistrust, reduced psychological safety, and diminished employee engagement and productivity.