Research reveals new aspects about work-related mental health issues can be avoided

A new research by Morneau Shepell, a human resources consulting and technology company based in Canada, has shed more insight into mental health issues, especially the work-related problems. The research reveals that more than half (57 per cent) of employees and managers are suffering, or have suffered at some point in the past, from a mental health issue or sleep-related disorder. The study also showed that 40 per cent of managers and 34 per cent of employees experienced extreme levels of stress within the previous six months and revealed a strong correlation between workplace stress and employee retention. Interestingly, the study also found that a number of employees avail disability leave because of untreated mental health issues, which is situation that is preventable.

Paula Allen, vice president, research, analytics and innovation solutions, Morneau Shepell, said: “Our research shows that there are early warning signs, such as a change in behaviour or productivity, that suggest someone is struggling and may go on disability leave. Managers can spot these signs up to 18 months before they take leave, but may not know what to do,” “Additionally, we found that about a third of the employee population is working at less than 70 per cent of their productivity.”

“We know that when people go off work for mental health issues they could be away for a long time,” said Alastair Macdonald, senior vice president of human resources, Nestle Canada. “If we can intervene before a crisis situation, in terms of prevention, intervention or restoration, it is money well spent.”

Experting will be talking about this issue and more at a keynote event, conducted by Morneau Shepell and Nestle Canada on December 13. The event details are listed below.

Event details