St. Paul is finding that despite the great effort required, there are big rewards in focusing more attention on workplace mental health. Concerns with stress, depression and suicide created a call to action, but for this initiative, one of the biggest challenges was where to start, given the broad scope of potential ways to address workplace mental health. The Healthy Saint Paul Committee focused on education through tools, resources and training; addressed EAP knowledge and use; developed key partnerships; and encouraged visible leadership engagement. Find out how the steps they took can apply to your workplace.
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APA Poll Finds Workers Uncomfortable Discussing Mental Health Issues in the Workplace
The APA released findings from a national poll designed to learn more about people’s experiences with workplace mental health. Here are key findings:
- Only about one-third (38%) of US adults employed with benefits completely agree that they know how to access mental health care benefits through work.
- Only 28% of US adults completely agree that they feel comfortable using mental health services through work.
- Stigma remains prevalent in the workplace with only about 1 in 5 US adults completely agreeing that they can discuss mental health openly and honestly with coworkers or supervisors.
- While a majority (78%) of employed US adults with benefits would feel comfortable reaching out to a coworker showing signs of anxiety or depression, about one-in-four (24%) would not know where to guide a coworker for mental health resources.
- The APA’s national poll found that 1 in 4 US adults would not know how to help a coworker who needed mental health services, and 27% said their employer does not offer adequate coverage for mental health care.
Darcy Gruttadaro, JD, the director of the Center for Workplace Mental Health, commented many employers only provide information about mental health coverage during the on-boarding process and open enrollment. The Center recommends that employers frequently remind employees about how to access mental health services and supports, by coordinating regular updates through the organization’s EAP, during health fairs, on the organization’s Intranet and through organization-wide communications like E-Blasts, newsletters, virtual and physical bulletin boards and more.
Infographic Series Debut: The Collaborative Care Model
Many employers recognize the importance of improving access to mental health and substance use care for their employees. This is challenging because of a shortage of psychiatrists and other mental health professionals and many people do not know where to begin in accessing mental health care. What if it was as easy as a visit to a primary care office? It can and should be. Learn more about how and the evidence-based Collaborative Care Model that improves access to care.