A new report from GreenShield shows that mental health benefits are a key factor influencing job retention, with one in three Canadian workers indicating they would leave their job for better mental health support. The findings come as mental health challenges, including stress and anxiety, affect two-thirds of employees across the country.
The survey, conducted online in September 2024 among 1,500 full-time and part-time Canadian workers, highlights an urgent need for more accessible, inclusive, and culturally sensitive mental health services in the workplace. The impact is particularly strong among younger generations and marginalized groups. Notably, 63 per cent of workers aged 18-24 and 57 per cent of 2SLGBTQ+ employees said they would quit for better mental health benefits.
“Canadians want more from their employers when it comes to mental health,” said Zahid Salman, President and CEO of GreenShield. “The fact that a third of workers would leave for better mental health support highlights just how critical this issue has become.”
The report also found that confidentiality is a top concern for employees seeking mental health care, with 85 per cent of respondents stating that it is the most important factor when accessing services. Additionally, cultural relevance was identified as significant, with more than 60 per cent of employees, particularly those in younger demographics, expressing a preference for therapists who understand their cultural background, language, or religion.
Other key findings from the report include:
- 67 per cent of employees have experienced mental health challenges in the past year, with stress and anxiety cited as the most common issues.
- 75 per cent of respondents want simpler access to health professionals and a more streamlined claims process, expressing frustration with current systems.
- Cultural understanding in therapy is crucial for younger workers, with 71 per cent of those aged 18-24 saying it is important that their therapist shares their cultural or religious background.
The report’s findings suggest that employers who fail to address these concerns may struggle to retain employees. According to Salman, the expectations for mental health support in the workplace are rising, and employers must meet these evolving demands.
“Employers who meet these evolving expectations are more likely to attract and retain top talent,” said Nadim Kara, Executive Vice President, People & Culture at GreenShield.