Why Mental Health Needs to Be a Priority in Canadian Workplaces

As conversations around mental health continue to grow in Canada, it’s clear that addressing mental well-being in the workplace is no longer optional — it’s a necessity. With rising stress levels, burnout, and anxiety becoming increasingly common among employees, businesses need to implement comprehensive mental health initiatives. Offering access to online therapy as an employee benefit is one way forward. Mental health support in the workplace can boost productivity, improve employee satisfaction, and create a healthier, more sustainable work environment.

In this post, we’ll discuss why mental health should be prioritized in Canadian workplaces and how implementing online therapy as part of employee benefits can help create positive change.

The Growing Need for Workplace Mental Health Initiatives

Mental health issues are on the rise in the workplace, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, which left many employees grappling with stress, uncertainty, and new working conditions. According to a 2022 study by LifeWorks, 50% of Canadian workers reported feeling more stressed than they did pre-pandemic, with mental health concerns like anxiety and depression rising at alarming rates. Additionally, the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) found that 30% of short- and long-term disability claims are related to mental health issues.

As a result, many businesses are recognizing the need to prioritize mental health initiatives. These programs not only benefit employees but also have a direct impact on the overall productivity and success of the organization.

The Business Case for Prioritizing Mental Health

There are several reasons why Canadian businesses should be taking mental health seriously:

1. Improved Employee Well-being: Employees who have access to mental health support are more likely to experience better overall well-being, which leads to fewer sick days and long-term absences. Healthy employees are more engaged, focused, and motivated to contribute meaningfully to the organization.

2. Reduced Absenteeism and Presenteeism: When mental health issues go unaddressed, employees often take more sick days (absenteeism) or show up to work but underperform due to stress or mental fatigue (presenteeism). By providing mental health support, companies can reduce these effects, which cost Canadian businesses an estimated $6 billion annually, according to the MHCC.

3. Increased Productivity: Harvard Business Review: reports that companies with strong mental health initiatives see a return of $4 for every $1 spent on mental health support programs. A workforce that feels supported is more productive and motivated to work towards organizational goals.

4. Better Retention and Recruitment: Offering mental health benefits, such as access to therapy, can help businesses attract top talent and retain employees in the long term. As mental health awareness grows, candidates are looking for workplaces that provide holistic employee support.

The Role of Online Therapy as an Employee Benefit

An effective and accessible ways to prioritize mental health in the workplace is by offering psychotherapy as an employee benefit, and providing employees with the education that these benefits cover therapy that is offered online as well. Online therapy provides employees with the flexibility to access mental health care on their terms, fitting into their busy schedules without the need to travel or disrupt their workday.

Benefits of Offering Online Therapy

1. Accessibility: In a country as vast as Canada, many employees — especially those in remote or rural areas — may have difficulty accessing in-person mental health services. Online therapy breaks down geographical barriers, providing mental health support to anyone with an internet connection, regardless of location.

2. Flexibility: Employees can schedule therapy sessions outside of working hours, making it easier to balance work responsibilities with self-care. They can access therapy through video calls, phone sessions, or even messaging, depending on the platform offered

3. Cost-Effective: For employers, offering online therapy as part of a benefits package can be more cost-effective than other wellness programs. Many insurance plans cover online therapy, reducing the financial burden on businesses and employees.

Implementing Mental Health Initiatives in the Workplace

Canadian businesses can implement a range of mental health initiatives to foster a supportive workplace culture. Here are a few ways to get started:

1. Offer Comprehensive Mental Health Benefits

Beyond online therapy, employers can provide comprehensive mental health coverage that includes counselling, access to mindfulness apps, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). Insurance plans should cover mental health services without limiting the number of sessions, allowing employees to receive the help they need.

2. Promote a Culture of Mental Health Awareness

Encouraging an open dialogue about mental health in the workplace is key. Employers should create a supportive environment where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health challenges without fear of stigma. This could include offering mental health training to managers, organizing mental health awareness campaigns, and promoting resources for employees.

3. Introduce Flexible Working Arrangements

One of the biggest sources of stress for employees is the work-life balance. By offering flexible working hours, remote work options, or hybrid working models, employers can help reduce stress and improve overall job satisfaction. Flexible working arrangements empower employees to take care of their mental health while meeting their professional responsibilities.

Addressing Burnout Among Canadian Employees

Burnout is a growing concern in Canadian workplaces, with many employees struggling to keep up with the demands of work in a post-pandemic world. According to a 2023 Deloitte survey, 47% of Canadian workers reported experiencing burnout in their current role, up from pre-pandemic levels. Mental health initiatives are essential in combating burnout, as therapy and other support systems can help employees manage their stress levels.

Employers should consider targeted interventions for burnout prevention, including offering wellness days, encouraging breaks, and providing mental health resources that focus on stress management.

The Importance of Mental Health for Younger Workers

It’s important to note that teens and young adults are also experiencing workplace burnout and mental health challenges, particularly those in entry-level positions or working in high-pressure industries. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) has reported that younger Canadians are more vulnerable to mental health issues, with 51% of Canadians aged 18-24 reporting moderate to severe mental health distress in 2022.

In addition to workplace demands, young adults face pressures related to housing, student debt, and the gig economy. By offering mental health support and promoting a culture of work-life balance, employers can help alleviate some of these stressors for younger employees.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Mental Health Is Good for Business

In 2024, mental health should be at the forefront of every Canadian workplace. Employers have a responsibility to provide their employees with the tools and resources they need to maintain their mental well-being. Offering access to online therapy as part of a mental health benefits package is an effective way to support employees, reduce absenteeism, and increase productivity.

By promoting a culture of mental health awareness, providing comprehensive benefits, and addressing workplace burnout, Canadian businesses can ensure their workforce is not only healthy but thriving. When mental health becomes a priority, everyone benefits — from employees to employers and the wider community.