Can you imagine US business ignoring a problem that annually costs them $105 Billion a year? Well that’s just what they do when they overlook mental illness as a serious workplace liability and threat to profitability.

Over the past several years the EEOC has litigated increasing numbers of claims under the ADA-American with Disabilities Act, from individuals asking for reasonable accommodations for mental illness and cases are being found in favor of the claimant who is asking for things such as flexible work schedules and a change in work hours. As awareness is raised about this category of illness, requests and claims will increase.

Whether it is because of antiquated stigma or because a company wants to stay out of employees “personal business”, too many organizations are putting their head in the sand about this one. And that is a serious mistake.
Unfortunately just as these issues are coming to light and treatments are proving effective, many Health Insurers are cutting back on mental health benefits. Lower cost plan options may totally eliminate or seriously limit access and care for mental illness. That said depression is one of the most treatable diseases with a recovery rate of nearly 85% when the individual is diagnosed and referred to the appropriate professional.
More companies are openly addressing this issue as reported in USA Today

A number of employers are enhancing mental health coverage or programs. The number of firms with employee-assistance programs, which often provide on-call counselors and referrals, has climbed from 68% in 2001 to 71% this year, according to the Society for Human Resource Management. Seven in 10 offer mental health insurance. Eighteen percent have grief-recovery programs, up from 12% in 2002.
General Motors' program provides U.S. employees with unlimited access to telephone counseling with a trained mental health professional and up to three face-to-face counseling sessions at no charge. GM also helps managers with what to do if an employee has personal issues.

Wellness efforts abound this time of year as organizations promote healthy eating and offer screening for everything from high blood pressure and cholesterol to osteoporosis in the ubiquitous benefits fairs. But when was the last time you saw a company offer depression screening or promotions for improving mental health?
It is time to come out of the closet and recognize the great value of promoting wellness on all levels, physical and emotional. Look to the industry leaders and match their efforts as you plan your benefit package this year.