OCC: #mentalhealthawarenessweek and work

The cost of mental illnesses to the Canadian economy is estimated at over $50 billion annually, with $20 billion of that stemming directly from workplace losses. On average, mental health issues cost businesses almost $1,500 per employee, per year.
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce has developed a toolkit to help employers put policies and strategies in place.
According to the report, a mentally healthy workplace features:

• Leadership that is responsive to mental health issues, including taking preventative action.
• Supportive relationships between employees and supervisors.
• An open door policy, with managers willing to hear both good and bad reports.
• Flexible work conditions (where appropriate) and good work/life balance.
• A mental wellness strategy that is not drafted and forgotten, but lives on through conversation and action.
• A policy of fairness and accommodation for those struggling with mental health issues or returning to work after a leave of absence.
• An environment in which employees are able to be productive at work and leave with energy at the end of the day.

Read the report