Mental Health in the Workplace

Description

Join the Lethbridge Chamber of Commerce and Laura Morden, Lethbridge College's Health and Safety Coordinator, for an informative lunch and learn session on Mental Health in the Workplace!

According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada, in 1998, $6.3 billion was spent on uninsured mental health services and time off work for depression and distress that was not treated by the health care system.

In addition, findings in a recent survey conducted by Morneau Shepell noted the following: one in three  workers in Canada reported having, or having had, a mental condition such as depression or an anxiety disorder. In addition to the 33 per cent of employees who report a mental health condition, the survey found that another 27 per cent of employees report significant stress symptoms. 

Also, in an average week, mental health issues cause 500,000 Canadians to miss work, and 30% of disability claims, and 70% of disability costs are attributed to mental illness.  If mental illness is left unmanaged, it can lead to other workplace-related risks such as increase in accidents, workers’ compensation claims, disability and workplace violence.  

This session will look to continue this discussion from an employer’s perspective, and assist with potential strategies to support employees and work through solutions.

About the Presenter:
Laura Morden is the Health and Safety Coordinator at Lethbridge College. Over the past five years, her role has evolved to include disability management, return to work and liaison with insurance providers. She works as a key member of a team involving the returning employee, managers/supervisors and third party providers in the coordination and implementation of safe and successful return to work for employees.
She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Lakehead University, a certificate in Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety from the University of Victoria, and recently has completed her certificate in Disability Management from Dalhousie University. She's proud to call Lethbridge, AB her home.