Employee Benefit News for School, City and County Employers

Mental Health Impacts Businesses

Written by Valerie Ortiz | May 18, 2022 3:28:16 PM

2 minute read

According to a recent survey from The Hartford Financial Services Group, one third of employers reported significant impacts on their business stemming from their employees’ mental health strain.

The survey’s claims data found that mental health issues are among the top five reasons that workers are filing for short-term disability, excluding pregnancy. It was also found that employees with physical injuries or illness typically take double or triple the time to recover when a mental health issue is also present.

Seventy percent of employers report mental health as a serious workplace issue. Over half of employers (52%) reported that substance abuse was causing significant or severe workplace issues. The mental health stigma is still strong, 72% of employers said it prevented employees from getting help.

Employees reported that mental health issues cause them multiple problems in the workplace including missed time from work, inability to concentrate, increased irritability, trouble focusing, and missed deadlines.

Despite pandemic-related challenges, employees agree that their company culture has improved regarding mental health. They are providing more flexibility, creating an open and inclusive environment, and encouraging mental health discussions.

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This blog is intended to be a compilation of information and resources pulled from federal, state, and local agencies. This is not intended to be legal advice. For up to the minute information and guidance on COVID-19, please follow the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and your local health organizations.