World Mental Health Day was observed on October 10, 2022. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created a global crisis for mental health, fueling short- and long-term stresses and undermining the mental health of millions. Estimates put the rise in both anxiety and depressive disorders at more than 25% during the first year of the pandemic. At the same time, mental health services have been severely disrupted and the treatment gap for mental health conditions has widened.
While employers pursue various ways to support employees struggling with mental health issues, it’s also important to be aware of and offer appropriate leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) recently issued a fact sheet relating to an employee’s ability to use FMLA leave for their own or a family member’s mental health condition.
We recently released an article that provides an overview of the FMLA, the DOL’s guidance, FMLA assistance for employees struggling with mental health issues and ways employers can support their employees. Click the following link to read the HR Insights article: Understanding FMLA Leave for Mental Health Conditions
And, check out our recent HR Chat where Rob Wilson and Jason Eisenhut converse on this topic:
If you’d like to learn more about the FMLA, contact us for additional guidance and support.