Thankfully, the negative stigma around mental health issues has started to shift in recent decades. Mental health issues are something that both business owners and employees can face at times.
While new business owners don’t tend to employ an on-site counselor at the top of their list, it is becoming more common. Many established companies have reaped the following benefits of having an on-site counselor.
Reduced absenteeism
Employees are the backbone of any company. For the company to be profitable, employees need to be present. Of course, in today’s age, being present doesn’t necessarily mean being physically present, but they need to be engaged in work-related activities when scheduled.
Mental health issues are a significant cause of absenteeism. Serious mental health issues can be difficult to diagnose and treat. Some studies suggest that absenteeism due to mental health issues costs U.S. companies over $200 billion every year.
By having an on-site counselor, you can spot the warning signs of mental health issues earlier. The employee can seek the help they need, and you can bring in temporary cover while they are off if necessary. Companies with an on-site counselor typically see a significant reduction in absenteeism.
Increased safety
Employers owe a duty of care to their workers. This includes creating a safe work environment and eliminating workplace discrimination. Having an on-site counselor can help with this on numerous levels.
Firstly, it encourages workers to be open and honest about mental health issues, thus reducing the likelihood of discrimination. It also increases the safety of employees as a whole. Employees dealing with mental health issues may become distracted, lack concentration, or be fatigued, increasing the chances of workplace accidents.
Improved mental health in the workplace means higher productivity and a more inclusive environment. An on-site counselor is certainly something to consider. We help businesses to set up in a way that ensures compliance with all legal requirements. Call us today to arrange a consultation.
