Supporting Absent Employees with Mental Health: Best Practices

Keeping Contact and Supportive Communication

During an employee's absence due to mental illness:

• Keep in regular contact via email or phone as part of a return to work initiative.
• Ensure contacts are genuine and supportive, not merely token gestures.
• Ask about their well-being and update them on relevant work-related changes.

Planning and Facilitating Return to Work

Preparing for an employee's return:

• Consider the type and level of mental illness and their rehabilitation plan.
• Plan a phased return to work to accommodate individual needs and challenges.
• Address barriers like embarrassment or fear of returning to work environment.
• Avoid rushing the return process to ensure readiness and wellness.

Support Systems and Confidentiality

Establishing supportive systems and confidentiality:

• Implement a support process and phased return model.
• Regularly review and adjust support measures to promote mental health.
• Conduct risk assessments as needed before the employee returns to work.
• Maintain confidentiality; disclose information only with employee's consent.