Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield and Virtual Mental Health Care
Depression and anxiety are exacerbated by stress at work and at home . Symptoms manifest in the workplace as tiredness , lack of concentration , and overly emotional reactions . Tardiness and absenteeism can be signs of an even deeper problem .
All of that adds up to lost productivity for employers .
The 2024 Workplace Mental Health Poll from the National Alliance on Mental Illness measured mental wellness among full-time workers . The poll found that :
• 62 % are uncomfortable talking about their mental health .
• 37 % found it hard to do their job due to overwhelming stress .
• 36 % felt that their mental health suffered due to work demands .
• 33 % noticed a decline in productivity .
• 25 % are unsure of their mental health care benefits .
• 20 % say it ’ s hard to find affordable , accessible mental health care .
According to Lisa Marsh , RN , MS , ATC , vice president market executive , West Virginia , individuals typically experience depression or anxiety symptoms for at least seven years before seeking help .
“ We need to meet people where they are ,” she said . “ Whether they just started having symptoms or have been dealing with them for years .”
Expanded mental well-being resources for employers
Highmark has “ doubled down on member support ” with Mental Well- Being , a solution powered by Spring Health . This solution directs members and their families to the right resources at the right time .
Resources include an expanded network of 6,000 newly added psychiatrists , psychologists , therapists , counselors , social workers , and care navigators . Members can choose from in-person or virtual appointments . Appointments occur within threeto-five days of scheduling .
Breaking down barriers to care
Employers that offer mental health care benefits are already making strides toward breaking down barriers . The next step is to reinforce the availability of these benefits by talking openly about employee mental health .
“ You can create a culture of inclusivity by offering comprehensive resources ,” Marsh said . “ Every employee has different mental health needs . Some might respond well to digital tools , whereas others want hands-on help .”
Virtual therapy visits are a popular choice . Remote and hybrid employees can schedule appointments for when they have privacy at home or elsewhere .
On-site employees should have a dedicated private space for virtual visits , conducted during their breaks or off hours . Flexibility is important for employees who need a safe space away from home .
Employee benefits for whole-person health
“ Mental Well-Being powered by Spring Health helps fulfill our vision of Living Health ,” Marsh said . Living Health recognizes that physical , mental , and social health work together to create a fulfilling life . The goal is to deliver a simpler , more personalized , and proactive experience that :
• Improves accessibility to quality care
• Lowers health care costs
• Empowers everyday health
• Promotes better member engagement
“ All of our member services work together for integrated care that serves the whole person ,” Marsh said . “ The more we can support members in the digital space , the more accessible care becomes .”
Visit Highmark ’ s mental health resources page at www . highmark . com / resources / mental-health-services .