Talking about Mental Health in the Workplace

As Canada recognizes Mental Health Week (May 4-10), we want to support the open dialogue around mental health awareness. Successful work environments rely on the health of their teams, and as mental health conditions in the workplace continue to rise, employers must be proactive and look for solutions that support the overall well-being of their employees. With a fast-paced and highly competitive workforce, Nova Scotia’s tech sector continues to acknowledge the importance of maintaining a positive and healthy workplace that helps employees feel supported, connected and productive. We’ve gathered some resources to help employers better understand and improve mental health in the workplace. Facts about Mental Health in the workplace

• Every week in Canada, approximately 500,000 employees call in sick to work due to stress, anxiety, and depression
• More than 30% of disability claims and 70% of disability costs that Canadian businesses pay out are due to mental illness
• 56% of people suffering from a mental health concern do not receive treatment and 45% of individuals said cost of accessing services was a major barrier
• 50% of millennials have quit a job due to mental health concerns

How to spot mental health concerns within your organization? According to research done by Consumer News and Business Channel (CNBC) the risk of “burn out” is increased in millennials due to rising workloads and longer working hours. CNBC also found that 50% of millennials and 75% of Gen Zers are leaving jobs due to mental health concerns. Employers can spot issues early by meeting with employees regularly, and can support employees with workplace stress by encouraging them to utilize existing benefits. When employees take advantage of existing health benefits, organizations can mitigate rising costs related to mental health. Helping employees understand how to access benefits empowers them to be proactive and take care of their wellbeing and mental health needs.

Solutions for Employers

The Working Mind (TWM) Accessed through The Mental Health Commission of Canada, this education-based program discusses mental health and the stigma surrounding it in the workplace. It includes three online TWM courses, each one geared to either the employee, the manager or the trainer through a Train the Trainer course. e-Mental Health Online Resources The Mental Health Commission of Canada also offers e-Mental Health, by using the internet, apps, and other forms of technology. Benefits include:

• Shorter wait times
• Quick access in rural and remote areas and inner cities
• Availability in many languages
• Cost-effective delivery
• Service tailored to specific habits and genetic profiles

Mental Health, Technology and You As part of their research, the Mental Health Commission of Canada created Mental Health, Technology and You. This document provides insight into how technology can be a great resource in helping people overcome mental health struggles. WellCan This new app is the result of a unique partnership led by Morneau Shepell, and combines the strengths of multiple partner organizations to provide Canadians with free and easy access to an extensive range of resources to support their mental health. The WellCan app is very easy to use and will be available to everyone in Canada as a free download in app stores this week. Content will be continuously refreshed with the latest information and resources. Digital Nova Scotia, along with Ghallager, can assist you and your team in finding the best health plan for your needs Digital Nova Scotia can provide a comprehensive health and benefits plan for our members. Plans are completely customizable and flexible to meet your business needs. For more information on how to access these services please contact Lorie Collins at Gallagher Global Insurance. Plans could include access to various resources including Expanded Mental Health Practitioners, Digital Therapy, Online Doctors and an Employer Assistance Program (EAP). Give Lorie a call at (902) 334 2817, or drop her an email to find out more.