Creating a resilient workforce has never been more critical. Employers across Canada increasingly recognize that supporting mental health is not merely beneficial-it's essential. Providing comprehensive mental health benefits not only supports employees personally but also enhances workplace productivity, engagement, and retention.
According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada (2024), approximately 1 in 3 Canadian employees report experiencing mental health challenges impacting their workplace performance. Moreover, Deloitte Canada's 2025 Mental Health in the Workplace Report highlights that for every $1 invested in mental health programs, organizations see an average return of $2.20 through improved productivity and reduced absenteeism.
Why Mental Health Benefits Matter
Mental health support is crucial in building resilience and overall wellness within your team. By proactively addressing mental health, your organization sends a clear message: employee wellbeing is valued and prioritized.
Key reasons to integrate mental health into your group benefits include:
Reduced Absenteeism and Presenteeism: Employees with access to mental health resources are less likely to miss work or struggle with productivity.
Improved Employee Engagement and Morale: Supportive workplaces foster loyalty, increase engagement, and boost overall morale.
Enhanced Recruitment and Retention: Companies with robust mental health support experience lower turnover rates, particularly among younger talent who prioritize wellness.
Essential Components of Mental Health Benefits
An effective mental health benefits package should provide comprehensive resources and easy access.
Here are several critical components to consider:
Virtual Counselling and Therapy: Offering telehealth and virtual counselling services enables employees to access support anytime, from anywhere.
Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): A robust EAP provides confidential counselling, crisis support, and mental health resources.
Resilience and Wellness Training: Programs that promote resilience training, stress management, and mindfulness contribute to long-term mental wellness.
PACE Consulting's Wellness Bundle, in partnership with Perigon, is an example of how Canadian businesses can integrate these vital mental health resources into their existing group benefits plan seamlessly.
The Canadian Landscape: Supporting Employee Mental Health
Recent Canadian workforce data underscores the growing necessity of mental health support: According to the Conference Board of Canada (2025), over 70% of Canadian employees now expect mental health coverage as part of their employment benefits. A Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) report (2024) indicated that businesses that prioritize mental health see 40% less absenteeism related to mental illness.
These findings highlight the tangible benefits and employee expectations surrounding mental wellness programs.
Steps to Integrating Mental Health into Your Benefits Strategy
To build a resilient workforce through mental health support, consider these steps:
Assess Current Needs: Conduct employee surveys or wellness assessments to understand existing mental health challenges.
Review and Enhance Current Offerings: Evaluate your current group benefits plan to identify gaps and areas of improvement.
Educate Employees: Clearly communicate available resources, encouraging employees to proactively manage their mental health.
Measure and Adapt: Regularly review usage, feedback, and outcomes of mental health programs to ensure ongoing effectiveness.
Ready to Elevate Your Mental Health Benefits?
At PACE Consulting, we specialize in designing tailored group benefits packages that include comprehensive mental health support, helping your workforce become more resilient, productive, and satisfied.
Let's collaborate on building your organization's mental wellness strategy.
Disclaimer
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or legal advice. Consult professional advisors for guidance specific to your organization. While we strive for accuracy, we assume no liability for any errors or omissions.