A report compiled by the Mental Health Commission of Canada (2015), says very high levels of stress are reported by 16.5% of the population in family caregiving roles. The report says that Canada’s aging population means higher numbers of people with dementia and other chronic illnesses. This may result in an increase in the number of family caregivers. This can mean an increase in the population subject to excessive stress.
According to Statistics Canada (2020), in 2018 one in four Canadians over the age of 15 provided care to family and/or close friends. Many are struggling to balance caregiving obligations with work responsibilities.
When an employee is a caregiver of someone with mental health issues there can be a significant impact on the employee's ability to function productively in the workplace. The Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC) (2013) notes that this can create issues for employees who struggle to balance work and caregiving. Their studies have shown flexible work is especially beneficial for employees who are caregivers. It's lowered absenteeism, gained employee loyalty, improved morale and retention, and increased productivity.
Actions to help working caregivers
It's important for the employer to have a conversation with the employee. They can talk about how they can help the employee to stay productive while meeting the needs of a family member. Some actions include:
- Flexible scheduling, task assignment and, if possible, work-at-home arrangements.
- Supportive language and actions that demonstrate the organization values the employee.
- A plan for how to handle situations when the employee has to leave suddenly, or unexpectedly cannot come in to work.
- A private space to make personal calls and care arrangements.
- Support to address co-worker concerns and reactions.
- A workplace culture that supports overall employee well-being.
- Caregiver resources that are shared with the employee, including what may be available through the organization's EAP, benefits or healthy workplace plans or programs.
- Regular check-ins with the employee to see how they are doing.
Additional resources
- A Guide to Balancing Work and Caregiving Obligations – Collaborative approaches for a supportive and well-performing workplace | PDF. An in-depth guide that provides tips for developing accommodation solutions that are in harmony with human rights law. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of the employee, the employer, unions and/or employee representatives. Information provided courtesy of the CHRC.
- Caring for the Caregiver. A guide created by Autism Ontario that shares information on ways to support those who care for neurodivergent individuals, or those with autism. It includes information on creating connection, self-care, and a list of resources available to support caregivers.
- Family Resources. Videos, online forums and other resources for family members of individuals with a mental illness.
Share this resource with anyone who is a leader that has caregivers on their team and is looking for ways to support them.