A proactive approach to mental health issues is gaining more widespread acceptance in the workplace, with an increased focus on individual well-being from employers. While workplaces generally have a history of offering employee group benefits, plans have mostly focused on physical health without many resources allocated to mental healthcare. But that trend is shifting as awareness of treatment benefits grows and employers shift their priorities to eliminate any stigma associated with seeking such care.
According to a study completed by Statistics Canada in 2022, the prevalence of general anxiety disorders has doubled since 2012. With such a large change in only a decade, the effects of poor mental health can not be ignored. While it may not be evident right away, mental health can affect both employees and the companies that they work for. If someone is struggling with mental health challenges, it is common to see lower productivity in their work. If not treated or taken seriously, this can also lead to an increase in the number of days absent. Another concern when employers do not put a focus on mental health is employee retention. Without programs or benefits in place, employees can feel neglected by employers, believing that their superiors don’t have their best interest in mind.
There are many ways that employers can help promote mental health in the workplace. By shifting focus to create manageable workloads and promote work life balance, companies can avoid burnout from staff and demonstrate their compassion for their workers. Providing people with opportunities to grow and learn professionally, as well as allowing them to provide input and receive feedback, creates a safe environment built on trust and respect.
Another common method used to support mental health in the workplace is recognizing achievements. By celebrating milestones, anniversaries and rewarding hard work, employers are sending signs to their staff that they are appreciated and important. According to Mental Health Research Canada, only half (47%) of employees in large workplaces (500+ employees) are experiencing a positive workplace culture. By prioritizing a shift in this narrative, companies can start to see an improvement in performance and mindset.
Benefit programs are another effective way to support employees’ mental health. By providing staff with access to mental health professionals and programs, companies build a community of happier, healthier and productive employees. A concern for many employers is the cost of such an investment in their benefit packages. With inflation driving up the cost for prescription drugs and other services, affordable employee group plans are becoming a concern for many employers. Acera Insurance’s COO Bruce Rabik says, “Insurance providers are ready to work with you to ensure you are getting the best plan for your size of business at a competitive rate.” Acera Insurance creates bespoke benefit packages for their clients with a focus on being cost effective. This can mean leveraging government and patient assistance programs, adjusting existing plans based on claims usage, or finding alternative mediums such as digital health support which allows for more variety in the types of care accessible. In 2024, there should be no question about an employer taking steps to support their employees mental health. The main question is determining the most effective approach. With many methods and resources available, it’s left to each individual company to decide what works best for them and their staff. But it has been proven without doubt that when you invest in your employees’ mental health and happiness, they will yield great returns in performance and loyalty. This is a key factor in the longevity and success of your business.
