The Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC) is marking Mental Health Awareness Week by encouraging employers to hire people with lived mental health experience. In a recent column in the Globe and Mail, the MHCC highlights the return of investment for both the employer and employee when accommodating those with mental illness.
The results of MHCC’s report, A Clear Business Case for Hiring Aspiring Workers, were positive for both groups. Employers benefited from savings due to decreased absenteeism and presenteeism, lower staff turnover and increased productivity. Net savings for employers ranged from $56,000 to $204,000 at the end of five years. Employees, meanwhile, benefitted financially as well. And with accommodations, they were able to maintain consistent employment instead of relying on government supports or underemployment.
In its Globe and Mail column, the MHCC lists several useful resources for both employers and employees, including Mental Health Works. A social-enterprise of CMHA Ontario, Mental Health Works conducts in-person workplace training workshops, webinars, and provides custom-built e-modules for organizations seeking to make their workplaces psychologically healthy and safe.
For employers and employees looking for more information about accommodations in the workplace, contact Mental Health Works.
