NEWSLETTER
Mental Health Issues in the Workplace
November 2007
Note from Earl:
During the last few weeks, I was privileged to attend a seminar put on by one of the major insurance carriers. The definite highlight of the day was a luncheon at which Margaret Trudeau (yes, it was Pierre’s ex-wife) shared her struggles with bi-polar disorder and related health issues. It was an insightful, revealing and engaging story of the ongoing battles, both mental and physical that she has had.
She shared that she was improperly diagnosed and treated for much of her adult life. As well, she, like many others, refused to follow the recommendations of the medical professionals. Now, the good news is that she had a doctor that she likes and is on the appropriate medications.
A number of years ago, I had to work with someone who also had bi-polar disorder. When she took her medication, she was a wonderful employee. However, when she did not take her prescriptions, either by choice or forgetfulness, she essentially could not work. She would be withdrawn, sad, and very unproductive. She was there, but not really able to work.
Here are two of the major mental health problems facing workers and employers alike today:
- Depression
Depression has either touched each of us, or someone we know closely. Across Canada, at least 1 in 4 people will experience this illness during their lifetimes. It is estimated that at any one time, at least 1 in 20 employees can experience depression. If it is left undetected and untreated, it can lead to severely decreased productivity and increased sick days or time off work. - Presenteeism
Many employees are at work, but not really fully engaged or productive while they are there. Losses from presenteeism can be as high as 60% of the total cost of worker illness. This exceeds the cost of absenteeism, healthcare costs and disability benefits. Productivity losses account for more than 80% of the total illness cost for employers.
There are now some cooperative efforts underway with the federal government, insurance carriers, private organizations and individuals. As their efforts progress, increased awareness and treatment of mental health issues will be undertaken.