Experts say mental health issues and stress were already on the rise among employees before the coronavirus pandemic, and they certainly won’t just disappear post-pandemic. The disaster finds more employees struggling and employers playing catch-up in the rush to help.
Source: Human Resource Executive, May 11, 2020. Link. “The pandemic has forced us to make changes and to make it OK to talk about struggles (i.e. mental health issues, stress)” says Anne Richter. “I hope it doesn’t change for just this tiny bit of time.”
INSIGHTS: Animal health pros have admirably responded to mental health challenges and suicide in recent years. Yet, stigmas remain and some employers do not have the benefits, programs or culture in place to adequately address mental health concerns. As the next normal develops, mental health culture needs to continue its development.