Tag: Mental Health

Clarity amidst confusion: handling mental disability claims

by Allison B. Wannop One of the most difficult issues employers deal with is how to accommodate an employee with a mental impairment under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Mental impairments can include depression, anxiety disorders, and psychiatric disorders that affect employees’ attendance and performance. Employers may have a difficult time distinguishing mental impairments […]

Employees with Bipolar Disorder: Great One Day, Nightmare the Next

We have no accurate statistics regarding the prevalence of bipolar disorders in the workplace, especially because it is often hidden due to stigma, says Wootton. However, we do see a prevalence in creative departments, sales, legal, and management. Frustratingly, he adds, it’s often a tough call whether the employee with bipolar is an asset or […]

Mood problem or mental disorder? When can employers discipline?

By Kyla Stott-Jess Employers in Canada can’t discriminate against employees based on mental disabilities. But the broad interpretation that courts and arbitration boards frequently apply to human rights laws often makes it difficult to know where the boundaries of “mental disability” lie. In a recent arbitration decision in Ontario, Windsor (City) and WPFFA (Elliot), the […]

New voluntary standards for psychological health in the workplace

By Marc Rodrigue Increasing public attention has been given to mental health awareness. And Canadian employers are not exempt. Today’s employers have many employees who are affected by, directly or indirectly, psychological illness or are at risk of psychological hazards on the job. Sometimes these hazards can create human resources challenges, including extended employee absences […]

Maximize the Impact of Your Employee Assistance Program

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) have been around for decades, and your company likely has one. You may not pay much attention to it, but if you don’t, you may be missing an opportunity to really reap its maximum value. Recently, the National Business Group on Health (NBGH) (businessgrouphealth.org) created a work group charged with a […]