New research centre dedicated to addressing growing importance of mental health and wellness

Ambitious research will explore absenteeism and future-proofing investments in workplace mental health: 
Signal49 Research | Desjardins Insurance 

Ottawa, April 5, 2022 — Signal49 Research today announced the establishment of the Workplace Mental Health Research Centre. This new Research Centre will provide meaningful, actionable insights and better support to all Canadians through ambitious research that looks at key facets of mental health in the workplace.   

“The pandemic has highlighted the importance of mental health and wellness as many Canadians have struggled with isolation, job loss, remote work environments and economic uncertainties,” said Dr. Susan Black, CEO of Signal49 Research. “As we continue to navigate through the pandemic and beyond, our research at the Workplace Mental Health Research Centre will examine the growing importance of mental health and wellbeing for employers and employees.” 

Mounting evidence indicates that the growing cost to society of mental illness is not sustainable. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health reported the economic burden of mental illness in Canada was estimated to be approximately $51 billion each year, with $6.3 billion resulting from lost workplace productivity. Further, mental illness represents roughly one-third of short and long-term disability claims, and 70 per cent of workplace disability costs. Moving through COVID-19, many Canadians report significant concern and anxiety over the future.  

“The physical and mental health of our society is directly connected to the vitality of our communities. For employers and their employees, the last few years have focused on adapting, innovating and being resilient,” said Guy Cormier, President and CEO of Desjardins Group. “But we need to constantly evaluate our mental wellbeing and ensure we are supporting Canadians. We are proud to partner with Signal49 Research in establishing this new research centre to gain valuable insights that can help build better solutions at the workplace.”

The Centre will work with its founding member, Desjardins Insurance, as well as Sun Life Financial and Lundbeck Canada on research examining the impact of workplace absenteeism and future-proofing investments in workplace mental health, and on additional topics pending input from Centre members.

“Prioritizing employee mental health benefits all organizations,” said Erin Mills, Director, Human Capital and Workplace Health at Signal49 Research. “Increased mental wellness leads to increased productivity and engagement, lower turnover, and creates a healthy, respectful work environment, where everyone feels valued and supported.”

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