If you’re preparing to welcome an employee back after an extended mental health leave, make sure you have a comprehensive reentry plan in place for them. Here are the things that experts say any good back-to-work plan will have. Learn more at https://missionconnectionhealthcare.com/mental-health/professionals/reentry-plan-for-employees-returning-to-work/
Like physical illnesses, mental illnesses can be debilitating, robbing people of the ability to even get out of bed in the morning. It’s no surprise, then, that people with very severe cases must take time off from work to get professional care. As an employer, encouraging treatment with a licensed mental health provider is a good thing! But that mental healthcare doesn’t have to stop with the professionals—you can also play your part by easing your returning employees back into their usual routine with a suitable reentry plan.
Statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health Disorders show that an estimated 26% of Americans over the age of 18 suffer from a diagnosable mental health condition each year, with common conditions including major depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, and dysthymia; some disorders, such as depression and anxiety, frequently co-occur and can significantly impact an individual’s ability to attend work.
One study ordered by the National Bureau of Research found that mental illnesses are one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, costing the economy $282 billion annually in the U.S. alone. For reference, that’s equivalent to the average economic recession. When you think about it, “The Great Depression” was quite an apt term, wasn’t it?
For employees who have had to take extended leave to receive treatment for a mental illness, the benefits of a comprehensive reentry plan are twofold: A properly planned roadmap will support the employee’s mental health during their return to work while demonstrating the organization’s compassion—this will reduce the chances of recurrences and improve productivity.
By the way, organizations that implement mental health support strategies have also been shown to have lower employee turnover and a healthier workplace culture. But that’s not surprising. If you care about your employees, they’ll be loyal to you.
Mental health care requirements differ by the individual, but experts say you can’t go wrong with assessments of the returning worker, collaboration with mental healthcare providers, and clear communication channels are all essential components of an effective reentry plan.
On your end, this may include allowing flexible work arrangements that will gradually ease the employee into their usual workload; temporarily modifying the employee’s duties so that they have fewer high-stress tasks; and providing access to additional mental health resources, such as counseling, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and stress management workshops.
Your human resources team can also assist with the transition by conducting regular check-ins and addressing any concerns the returning employee may have. Consider introducing specialized training programs that will improve awareness of mental illnesses in the workplace as well—this will reduce the stigma surrounding such conditions. The less your employees fear judgment, the more open they’ll be about their needs.
And if you need extra help planning the transition process for your employee(s), licensed mental health professionals like the ones at Mission Connection can help. Don’t hesitate to get in contact with a provider if you’re unsure of what to do to support your workers. Mission Connection City: San Juan Capistrano Address: 30310 Rancho Viejo Rd. Website: https://missionconnectionhealthcare.com/