Helping your employees who are not okay: Prioritize mental health

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A seemingly never-ending pandemic, a divisive political environment, social unrest, unchecked inflation and a looming recession … the daily news cycle and life’s latest challenges are taking its toll on the American workforce. Research from Boston University found elevated rates of depression, that tripled in the early days of the coronavirus pandemic, have continued to get worse with one in every three American adults affected.

The cost to organizations cannot be overlooked as stress and related health care costs, absenteeism and presenteeism are estimated at $300 billion a year. As adults spend more time at work during their waking hours than any other activity, employers have an opportunity to provide support and resources to help employees address mental health and wellbeing. According to a recent survey conducted by the non-profit Midwest Business Group on Health, employers shared stress management is a top priority (85%), with financial wellbeing and depression also key areas of focus.