April Scott-Clarke
Joti Samra, clinical psychologist and adjunct professor and scientist with the Faculty of Health Sciences Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, gave an educational presentation on improving mental health in the workplace at the Canadian Health and Wellness Innovations Conference, hosted by the International Foundation of Employee Benefits Plans in Las Vegas.
Here are some key highlights from her session. Read the in-depth story.
- About 20% to 25% of Canadians will experience a diagnosable psychological health condition in their lifetime.
- Anxiety and depression often hit people in their prime working years.
- Illnesses are more prevalent in people who have a mental health condition, as are workplace accidents or incidents.
- Job satisfaction is a key factor in someone returning to work from a physical injury.
- Organizations that make genuine efforts to increase the psychological health of their workplace have less turnover, are better at recruiting, have more loyal staff and higher productivity.