Mental health challenges are on the rise
According to a Field Trip Health survey taken at the end of April, 83% of Canadians reported one or more symptoms of depression. Many were turning to substances to cope with negative emotions. The impact of the pandemic is not being borne equally:
- Women are more likely than men to indicate less than ideal mental states (with 30% describing their current mental health as either fair or poor, compared to 20% of men).
- Younger Canadians are also more likely to be experiencing the most negative feelings:
- 34% of 18-24 year olds
- 26% of 25-34 year olds
- 32% of 35-49 year olds
- 25% of 50-64 year olds
- 12% of 65+ year olds
Empire Life solutions that can help
We fast-tracked the launch of Mental Health Navigator, as COVID-19 was spreading, and included it in plans with Empire Life extended health benefits, in May, 2020.
Mental Health Navigator
Provided by Teladoc Health, Mental Health Navigator delivers expert assessment, treatment recommendations, and an action plan (as well as prescriptions if needed). A key strength is the continuous guidance and support of a Navigator (a registered nurse or social worker specializing in mental health) throughout the plan member's journey.
Different from EAP, the Mental Health Navigator starts with an assessment by a psychologist and/or a psychiatrist to establish the right diagnosis.
EAP
Our AssistNow EAP has three new services that can help. That's in addition to counselling, which is the heart of the service.
1. Aware mindfulness program:
this program is designed to help plan members calm both their mind and body, let go of negative thoughts, and feel more grounded in the present moment. This can help them better deal with stress and remain productive at home and at work. See the flyer and FAQ.2. Health coaching:
Designed for employees looking to improve one or more areas of their health (e.g. manage stress, eat better, etc.), health coaching can help define goals, identify and overcome obstacles, create and execute a plan, track progress and celebrate successes. See the flyer and FAQ.3. Oncallogic cancer support service:
Medical advances and new treatments offer more hope than ever before. Still, a cancer diagnosis can be frightening. The OnCallogic cancer support service provides counselling, information, and resources to employees and their families who have been touched by cancer, either directly or indirectly. See the flyer and FAQ.
