Psychological state affected due to pandemic
As per the Kaiser Family Foundation Nearly half of the Americans say their psychological state has been suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s no wonder, as many Americans are stuck inside, out of labor and facing a worldwide pandemic unlike anything seen during a century.
As Illinois and other states begin to reopen, workers will face additional anxiety about their safety at work and therefore the safety of their loved ones. How will employers support their workers’ psychological needs in these uncertain times?
Even before COVID-19, one in five Americans experienced mental issues annually. When it came to anxiety, one in three experienced a disorder in their lifetime and majority weren’t receiving any treatment. The issues Americans face with psychological state are only expected to worsen, which should be especially concerning for employers.
Poor psychological health takes a toll on workers and their performance. As per the CDC, depression interferes with an individual’s ability to finish physical job tasks about 20% of the time and reduces cognitive performance about 35% of the time.
The pandemic ushered in even more anxiety. Work-related concerns have left more than 40% of employees feeling hopeless, burned out or exhausted during the pandemic, as per SHRM. Around half of workers say they often had little or no interest in doing things since COVID-19 began.
Receiving care after psychological conditions remains a challenge. In 2018, half (44%) of US citizens under age of 65 reported experiencing a mental disorder and visited psychological state professional for his or her problem.
Some people don’t seek care because psychological conditions are stigmatized. This is often very true among men, who are socialized in a way to avoid showing their feelings.
Those who seek treatment often struggle to seek out in-network or affordable options, which is a challenge for lower-income people. Normal counseling session often costs $100-$200 per session.
Even those with quality coverage and a capability to hunt treatment may have trouble getting consultation due to nationwide shortage of psychological treatment providers. On an average there are nine psychiatrists per 100,000 people, and around half the country doesn’t have enough practitioners to satisfy the requirements of their area.
An employer benefit is beneficial only if it is used. Often, employers “check the box” on psychological health assistance with an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provided into their benefits plan. But very few employees actually use their EAP, which may also be difficult to navigate.
Virtual psychological assisting services are a new replacement option which will help employees and provide them with access to counselors via phone or video chat or any other online means available. Other employee/staff solutions may include training, workshops and wellness programs.
Improving employees’ psychological state doesn’t happen overnight. Employers got to invest in betterment of employee psychological state year-round with benefits and programs that employees will actually use.
