In Case You Haven't Heard…

Abstract

Although many large employers think they are providing a flexible work environment, a new survey reveals that they should be doing more in regards to mental health. A Northeast Business Group on Health survey, published June 26, found that 26% of employers never identify the needs of employees, nor the “awareness and effectiveness” of their mental health programs. About 3 in 10 respondents don't have messaging campaigns through social media and internal platforms on mental health, MedCity News reported. The survey included responses from 140 large employers in the U.S. It used a tool that Northeast Business Group on Health launched in November called Well Gauge. The tool asks participants a series of questions through four sections: communicating a commitment to mental health, engaging leadership at all levels, demonstrating a commitment to mental health, and fostering environments that support total health. Users of the tool also receive a list of recommendations to improve mental wellness support at their organization. The survey also found that just 52% of employers “always” or “usually” offer easily accessible information about mental health support. Less than half of employers reported that managers are engaged when it comes to “breaking mental health stigma.” Not only are they often not engaged, but only half “always” or “usually” know how to address employees' mental health needs and how to direct them to support.