A strong link can be drawn between an unhealthy workplace, work-related stress, and unhealthy lifestyles (The Business Case for a Healthy Workplace, IAPA 2008). The cost of doing nothing can be higher than you imagine. Over time, unhealthy workers and workplace practices take their toll, leading to a host of outcomes, including mental illness such as depression.
Good Health Linked to Good Business
It is evident that escalating health care costs, increasing levels of injury and illness, and rising absenteeism have a basis in the state of the organization’s culture, the health and safety of the workplace environment, and in the level of support services available to staff.
Investing in a mentally healthy workforce is good for business. When employees receive effective treatment for mental illnesses, the result is lower total medical costs, increased productivity, lower absenteeism and presenteeism, and decreased disability costs.
Create a Psychologically Safe and Healthy Workplace
Good business is often equated with a solid bottom line. Keeping staff healthy, productive and engaged is one of the most critical challenges for employers, yet the fact remains clear; good health leads to good business.
Canadian and international studies have shown that a mentally healthy workforce is linked to lower medical costs, lower absenteeism, and higher productivity. There are many workplace-related factors affecting health. Guarding Minds at Work, suggest twelve (12) factors for workplaces to measure and address, including
Psycholgical Support
Organizational Culture
Clear Leadership and Expectations
Civility and Respect
Psychological Job Fit
Growth and Development
Recognition and Reward
Involvement and Influence
Workload Management
Engagement
Balance
Psychological Protection
We’re Here to Help
One of the most effective ways to improve the health and wellness of employees, decrease illness and injury, and improve your bottom line is to create a comprehensive plan.
A comprehensive company plan can tackle the three factors that ensure you have a healthy workplace – physical environment, organization, and employee resources.
At the Canadian Mental Health Association, we can help you today by providing the direction, support and training needed for your leaders and your staff. Contact us for your free organizational consult.