(NAPSI)\u2014The challenges brought to daily life by the COVID-19 pandemic have spurred many businesses to consider ways they can support employees\u2019 mental health.<\/p>\n
For help, businesses can turn to the Mental Health Toolkit developed by the U.S. Department of Labor-funded Employer Assistance and Resource Network on Disability Inclusion (EARN). The toolkit outlines strategies based around the \u201c4 A\u2019s of a Mental Health-Friendly Workplace\u201d\u2014awareness, accommodations, assistance, and access.<\/p>\n
A<\/strong>wareness involves educating workers about mental health issues and taking action to foster a supportive workplace culture.<\/p>\n A<\/strong>ccommodations mean providing employees with mental health conditions with the workplace supports they need to perform their jobs.<\/p>\n A<\/strong>ssistance refers to supporting employees with mental health conditions, something many businesses do through employee assistance programs.<\/p>\n Finally, A<\/strong>ccess means assessing healthcare plans to ensure coverage for mental health treatment, which has been shown to benefit not only employees but also a business\u2019 bottom line. According to the American Psychiatric Association, more than 80 percent of employees treated for mental health conditions report improved levels of efficiency and satisfaction at work.<\/p>\n The toolkit also includes examples of mental health initiatives implemented by businesses of varying sizes and industries.<\/p>\n