Oct 23
- October, 23 2017
- Dr. Sam Ozersky, MD
CEO of the Mental Health Commission of Canada writes “E-Mental Health is poised to fill a critical void.”
Recently, the National Journal of Human Resources Journal contained an article written by Louise Bradley, the president and CEO of the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC). The MHCC’s mandate is to oversee the strategic direction of mental health in Canada, to raise awareness of the mental health and wellness needs of Canadians, and to catalyze collaborative solutions to mental health system challenges.
Ms. Bradley states “The growing awareness around mental health and the application of new technologies are intersecting to create fresh opportunities to address this concern through e-mental health, particularly in the workplace”.
Ms. Bradley highlighted Mensante’s FeelingBetterNow® as an e-mental health tool “which helps employees identify mental health issues early and take immediate action, allowing them to stay healthy and productive at work. It uses the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) assessment to connect individuals to a personalized and immediate action plan for self-help or collaborative care with a counsellor, psychologist or physician and works with existing benefits and disability management programs”.
The costs related to mental health problems are spiraling. These costs include short and long term disability, random absences, productivity loss and hospitalization. Many people suffering a mental health problem which could have been addressed earlier if they had access to the benefits of e-mental health tools.
Ms. Bradley sets out several ways that e-mental health tools can be utilized to effect best practice outcomes. Because appointments are not necessary, people are able to access mental health support with minimal disruption to their work, their studies and their home life. E-mental health tools include screening, assessment, monitoring, self-management tools, online cognitive behavioral therapy, peer support, and more.
By augmenting traditional in person mental health care, e-mental health provides people suffering a mental health problem with immediate access to tools before and between appointments. And many people will be able to return to a full life without having to see a mental health professional.
Full Article Link: http://www.hrreporter.com/workplace-health-and-wellness/33292-the-power-of-e-mental-health/