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Significant Regional Differences In Employee Health
June 29 2007
Quebeckers seek more help for stress, Albertans for addiction and Maritimers for credit and gambling issues
CALGARY A new study by Shepell·fgi has found the health of Canadians is as diverse as the economic and social makeup of the nation. The latest study by the Shepell·fgi Research Group examines Employee Assistance Programs accessed by 150,000 Canadians in over 1000 companies between 2003-2006.
"Every region of Canada has a very unique employee health profile," said Rod Phillips, President and CEO of Shepell·fgi. " While Quebeckers have healthy relationships but more stress, Albertans are having issues around addiction and Maritimers around credit and gambling." The study also clearly shows substantial differences between large business centres like Montreal and Toronto. Employees and their families in Montreal were far more likely to report depression or anxiety issues, with rates 12 per cent higher than Toronto.
"Its really important that companies take a close look at where their employees are based," said Karen Seward, Senior Vice President of Business Development and Marketing. "Mental health issues are a leading cause of absenteeism, and unscheduled absences make up about four per cent of a companys payroll. The people seeking these services are looking to play an active role in their health; employers should assist them by ensuring they have the access to the services they need."
"Its far more cost effective for employers to ensure their workforce is able to get assistance before disability and disease start driving costs. Were encouraging employers to take our numbers in this survey, and see if they translate to their own internal numbers."
Across Canada, the study also showed high rates of depression in British Columbia, and a "spill-over" effect in Saskatchewan with Albertas high reporting of substance abuse concerns.
"This study shows conclusively companies cant rely on a "head office" solution when it comes to the health and productivity of their workforce," added Phillips. " Employers need to take into account where their employees live and the specific stressors to their region and industry. The help and solutions offered must target the unique needs of the employee and the area they live in."
For more information or an electronic copy of the study, please contact:
Rosalind Robertson
PR and Events Manager, Shepell·fgi
rrobertson@shepellfgi.com
Phone: (403) 294 0362
Mobile: (416) 558 3117
About Shepell·fgi and the Shepell·fgi Research Group
Shepell·fgi is Canadas leading provider of workplace health services, including prevention-focused Employee Assistance Programs. The company services over six million employees and their families across Canada, the United States and internationally. Shepell·fgi helps organizations maintain healthy employees and healthy workplaces.
The Shepell·fgi Research group, a division of Shepell·fgi, has a mandate to educate employers and business leaders on physical, mental and social health issues as these factors impact employees, their families and their workplaces. The Shepell·fgi Research Group offers a precise understanding of health and wellness trends by conducting sector and issue-based analysis.
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