Unplanned absences in large worksites due to poor mental health can cost a business close to $1.2 million annually, impacting on productivity, general wellbeing and the wider economy.
Business SA is launching its latest discussion paper Minds at Work: Is Your Business Mentally Healthy? at a forum this morning in response to growing concern about the incidence of poor mental health at work.
Knowing how to deal with mental health at work and improving employee wellbeing is essential. Statistics show almost one in two Australians experience mental illness in their lifetime, which means the person sitting next to you could be impacted, as could your family, staff or employer.
The discussion paper includes new statistics on the cost of mental health in the workplace, information about mental health first aid training, guides to dealing with mental health at work, and help for businesses to improve health and wellbeing at work.
Minds at Work: Is your Business Mentally Healthy? features personal case studies from business owners, managers and industry, and discusses sharing struggles with colleagues.
Business SA Chief Executive Nigel McBride said mental health affected everyone, with mental stress claims the most expensive compensation claims submitted.
“Business owners and managers often juggle staff, work long hours, try to make a profit and pay wages, often forgetting to look after their own mental health,” Mr McBride said.
“This discussion paper urges workplaces to consider the mental health of their organisation, as well as their own, and provides a guide on improving wellbeing and how to find help. We need to ensure the business community is given the mental health support it needs.”
The event will be opened by Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Stephen Wade, and includes addresses by SA Mental Health Commissioner Chris Burns and ReturntoWorkSA Chief Executive Rob Cordiner.
A panel discussion will also take place, featuring:
- Director of the Asia Pacific Centre for Work Health and Safety, Maureen Dollard
- Beyond Blue ambassador and former Liberal senator Mary Jo Fisher
- Gateway South Darlington Upgrade Project WHS manager John Hannon
- Skinnymixers founder Nikalene Riddle
- Business SA senior policy adviser Estha van der Linden
Time: 7.30am arrival with a 7.45am sharp start
Where: Business SA, level 1, 136 Greenhill Road, Unley
To download Minds at Work: Is Your Business Mentally Healthy? Click here
To arrange an interview please contact Verity Edwards on 0412 678 942.
15 February 2019