Healthy Working October 2013

Managing an employee's return to work after a mental health leave

When an employee returns to work after an extended leave of absence, there are many factors that need to be considered. It's a difficult time for both employee and employer. The employee may be coping with lingering mental health issues, combined with the anxiety of returning to work and getting up to speed, all of which will have a huge impact on their productivity and how well they transition back into their role at work. It is the manager's role to make the transition as comfortable as possible.

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The do's and don'ts of welcoming an employee back

A return to work after a mental health leave can be daunting for the returning employee and coworkers alike. Here are a few suggestions to make this transition a smooth one:

Do: Stay in touch with the employee throughout the mental health leave.

Work is a core part of our lives.

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For counselling help or to access other available services call us at

1 866 833-7690 or visit workhealthlife.com

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October 2013

Mental Illness in the Workplace

To mark Mental Illness Awareness Week - October 6-12 - we are launching a microsite addressing Mental Illness in the Workplace.

Individuals suffering from mental illness often feel distant from friends and loved ones and can find it difficult to perform to their maximum productivity in the workplace. In fact, mental

health issues are growing at a faster rate than any other kind of disability in today's workplace (Canadian Mental Health Association).

They can often have high rates of absenteeism or be unfocused. This situation is exacerbated by the stigma that still exists around mental illness and the reluctance to discuss it openly at home or at work.

Mental illness indirectly affects all Canadians at some time through a family member, friend or colleague.
20% of Canadians will personally experience a mental illness in their lifetime.
Mental illness affects people of all ages, educational and income levels, and cultures.
Approximately 8% of adults will experience major depression at some time in their lives.

Featuring an interactive poll, social media sharing and additional EFAP resources, our Mental Illness in the Workplace microsite offers stories of recovery, resiliency tips and a look at organizations leading the way.

This site will go live October 7th. Visit workhealthlife.com/mentalillnessintheworkplace and show your support on social media ~ #MIAW.