In 2011, Manulife partnered with researchers from three Canadian universities to identify the risk factors within the workplace that lead to major mental health issues such as psychological distress, depression, and burnout. By gaining a better understanding of what was affecting employees, we hoped to offer recommendations to employers on how to reduce risk factors and provide a safe environment for all.

The study featured over 2,100 employees from 63 organizations and analyzed the impact of 63 management practices on mental health claims in organizations of various sizes. After five years of research, the study concluded that:

• Designing jobs based on an employees’ skills and interest, and increasing autonomy reduced the probability of incurring a mental health disability claim by 87%
• Promoting and focusing on work-life balance services, reduced the probability of incurring a mental health disability claim by 77%
• Recognizing employees for their at-work achievements, offering possibility of promotion and providing a clear career path, reduced the probability of incurring a mental health disability claim by 74%
• Promoting physical activities, reduced the probability of a incurring a mental health disability claim by 69%
• Implementing strategies to help employees maintain a reasonable workload, reduced the probability of incurring a mental health disability claim by 64%

Having a strategy in place that focuses on preventing mental health issues can make a significant difference on claims, disability costs, and overall employee productivity.

If you have questions on how to implement a mental health strategy and wellness program for your employees, contact your Manulife representative.

Salveo Study