Healthy businesses are those that support and safeguard employees' mental health
For Postmedia News October 2, 2010
WINDSOR, Ont. -- Stress, depression and other mental health issues afflict many people during their prime working years, costing employees financial stability and costing their employers productivity and profitability.
Disability claims account for four to 12 per cent of payroll costs. The incidence of depression, anxiety and other mental health claims is rapidly increasing. In the next 10 years, depression will rank second only to heart disease as the leading cause of disability globally.
A healthy business is one that supports and safeguards the health of its employees. It goes beyond offering a benefits plan and disability insurance: It makes efforts to understand mental health issues and take responsible, proactive measures, say experts in the field.
"Creating a mentally healthy workplace takes time and commitment and it is something we cannot ignore," says Patti Lauzon of the Canadian Mental Health Association.
"We all deserve to go to work each day and be treated with respect and work in an environment that honours our skills and abilities."
© Copyright (c) The Vancouver Sun
