A mental health crisis among America’s children might not seem like a workplace issue at first glance.
But if your workplace is typical, about 40% of your colleagues are working parents of children under age 18. And as any working parent knows, when your child is not well, the stress and worry of home and family life often come into work with you.
A Child's Health Impacts a Parent's Performance
About 1 in 5 children in the U.S. have a mental health issue, such as anxiety, depression, or attention and behavior disorders. If left untreated, the consequences of these issues can range from academic or social struggles to substance abuse or self-harm.
For parents, the health and well-being of a child can affect their own health and well-being – and that can impact their job performance. A 2021 survey of more than 3,000 working parents in the U.S. found:
53% of working parents have missed work at least once a month to deal with a child’s mental health issues.
54% of working parents interrupted their work to address a child’s mental health needs.
Working parents under age 40 say they are more likely to choose employers based on access to mental health care benefits and resources.
While 85% of working parents think it’s a good idea to discuss children’s mental health, fewer than 1 in 4 have talked to their managers, human resources department or colleagues about their children’s struggles.
That last point is an important one to Dr. Bernard DiCasimirro, Medical Director for Behavioral Health at Capital Blue Cross.
“Better access to mental health supports and treatment improves workplace productivity as well as the culture of an organization,” Dr. DiCasimirro said. “When employees know help is available for them and their families, they are less likely to miss work and more likely to share their positive experience with fellow employees, creating a healthier workplace overall.”
How Capital Can Help
Capital Blue Cross, for example, offers resources for both its own employees and its members, including:
A behavioral health toolkit that employer groups can use to foster a more supportive work environment.
A dedicated mental health and wellness page on Capital’s website.
A telehealth resource that goes beyond physical healthcare by offering fast and convenient access to psychologists, psychiatrists and other licensed behavioral health professionals.
A mobile app that helps users improve their mental wellness and better address anxiety, depression, and other mental health needs.
Capital also supports its employees through an employee assistance program and volunteer-led employee resource groups (ERGs) that foster dialogue and a sense of connection among employees who share common interests, backgrounds, or demographic characteristics.
Employees might find themselves feeling guilty for taking time off work to tend to their own basic needs, especially when it comes to their mental health. Many of these employees also have children who may be struggling with their own mental health concerns. Employers can play a crucial role in fostering a supportive work environment where employees are able to discuss mental wellness and be provided with the resources that can help employees and their families.
No matter the path forward for your company, it can all begin with a simple conversation, according to Dr. DiCasimirro.
“If you see an employee or colleague who appears to be struggling with family issues that impact their work, let them know you’re available to listen with a sympathetic ear,” he suggests. “Just having those initial conversations can help someone become open to seeking support that can improve both their personal situation and workplace dynamic.”