The last two years have been difficult for all to hold on to their mental health. This is becoming an increasing problem in the workplace as the pandemic continues to ravage parts of the country. Employers are becoming increasingly concerned over the state of their workforce’s mental health.
Issues like fatigue, workplace burnout, and drug or alcohol addiction are becoming more prevalent among workers today, these mental health issues can lead to loss of time at work, an increase in work related injuries due to lack of attention, or endangering fellow employees. All of these issues often lead to Connecticut workers’ compensation claims which can cost employers dearly.
Experts are growing ever more concerned as the numbers associated with mental health related issues continue to rise. Studies conducted over the course of 2020 and 2021 have found some alarming statistics including:
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Nearly half of the entire workforce, 44% of workers are feeling burnout on the job. This is up from just 34% in 2020.
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Opioid overdoses accounted for the vast majority of drug overdose deaths in 2020, a number that spiked 30% in the year to almost 100,000 deaths.
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Over half of all employers, 52% are expecting workplace disruptions due to drug and alcohol related issues in the coming year.
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Nearly 1/3 of all employers are experiencing financial impacts, in some cases severe financial impacts, due to mental health related issues.
Mental health issues are a cause for concern for both employees and employers. Workers are feeling the squeeze of working during a pandemic and the increasing frequency of experiencing loss and undue stress. Employers are experiencing lower productivity and higher demand for time away from work which affects the workforce as well as the fiscal bottom line.
Companies that are offering their employees mental health services are often recruiting the best and the brightest. These companies are betting on the fact that providing these services will help their employees, but also help them to avoid major disruption in the workforce due to Connecticut workers’ compensation claims.
If you’re back at work and have experienced a workplace injury due to yours or a co-workers mental health issues, one of our experienced and board certified attorneys can review your case and work with you to navigate the claims process.