A recent survey indicates that a staggering 80 per cent of Canadian workers have taken time off due to job-related mental health issues. The CSA Public Policy Centre has highlighted that the two most critical elements affecting workers’ well-being are compensation and interpersonal relationships, both at a striking 99 per cent relevance across various sectors.
Olga Morawczynski, co-founder and CEO of Heal-3, emphasises that the current economic stress makes compensation a pressing concern, as the cost of living outpaces wages. Furthermore, she points to a growing “loneliness pandemic,” noting that the workplace is one of the last major places for people to form connections and community.
What improves, harms workers’ mental health?
The report, utilising data from over 750,000 Glassdoor reviews, concludes that pay and workplace culture are pivotal in influencing mental health positively or negatively. Employers are encouraged to implement mental health supports without requiring extensive investment, with simple actions yielding significant results.
To diagnose stressors effectively, companies can introduce measures like shortened workweeks and enhanced access to leave. However, many workers are not utilising the mental health resources available to them.
Recommendations for government
The CSA Group has outlined several recommendations for Canadian legislation to bolster workplace mental health, including:
- Investing in research supporting organisational mental health programmes.
- Offering tax incentives for businesses focusing on mental health.
- Creating a central hub for workplace mental health resources.
- Enhancing legislative protection for workplace mental health.
- Supporting small businesses with adequate funding.
Key insights
- 80% of Canadian workers reported job demands worsened their mental health.
- Compensation and interpersonal relationships are crucial for employee well-being.
- The rising cost of living significantly affects workers’ financial stress levels.
- Employers benefit from implementing simple mental health support strategies.
- Current legal frameworks need strengthening to protect workers’ mental health.
Why should I read this?
If you’re a worker or an employer in Canada, this article is a must-read! It dives deep into the pressing issues surrounding mental health at work, pinpointing key elements that can make or break a person’s well-being in the workplace. You’ll discover practical insights on how to address these challenges effectively and why now, more than ever, it’s vital to get informed and involved.