Digital Tools and Solutions for Mental Health: An Employer's Guide

Abstract

From the Report's Executive Summary: "The global burden of mental health conditions, both in terms of human suffering and economic loss, is catastrophic and rapidly growing. Worldwide, mental health conditions affect more than a third of the world’s population with two — depression and anxiety — alone resulting in an estimated $1 trillion in lost economic productivity. A significant factor in why the personal, social and economic impact is so enormous is the challenge of accessing care for those who need it. Barriers to access include stigma, cost and lack of in-network providers due to systemic disparities. For employers, the impact of mental health conditions on their organizations is substantial and ripples beyond the cost of care to include lost productivity, absenteeism and presenteeism. As is the case with chronic diseases, mental health conditions are treatable, and employers can use comprehensive strategies to cultivate supportive work environments and provide access to a wide range of mental health resources. Employers have a unique opportunity to improve the mental health of the 158 million working U.S. adults who spend more time engaged in work than in any other activity apart from sleeping.

This guide focuses on how digital technologies have the potential to revolutionize mental health treatment. The growing number of digital interventions available offer promising ways to tailor programs for different types of employees that are scalable at a relatively more affordable price per employee than many other types of interventions."