Employers need to focus on mental health in the workplace just like they would do physical health, states a recent article authored by Kathy Jurgens, National Program Manager for Mental Health Works – a Canada-wide program based at CMHA Ontario.
Jurgens points out that there are cost-effective training options available to teach employers to how to accommodate employees with mental health issues, and that these training modules can be used no matter the size of the company. One example she cites is the National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace, which is a set of guidelines, tools and resources focused on promoting an employee’s psychological health and preventing psychological harm due to workplace factors.
“Workplaces must work strategically and collaboratively with all employees to foster a work environment that is supportive and where workplace mental health issues can be discussed and addressed,” says Jurgens in the article, which was featured in a special section in the Toronto Star about workplace safety . “As an employer, manager or supervisor, it’s not your job to diagnose mental illnesses. However you can educate yourself.”
Learn more about what Jurgens had to say by reading the full article.