The Cost of Doing Nothing; Workplace Counselling
Have you ever seen someone at work who’s just not themselves? Their work’s suffering, and they seem really unmotivated.
They might be taking more days off or acting differently. There are lots of reasons this could be happening – stress from work, personal stuff like losing someone, getting divorced, money troubles, or a family member being sick. Life can get really tough. So what can you do to help, as their boss?
The Real Impact of Stress at Work
Consider this scenario; one of your employees is stressed. This may be due to workplace conflict, personal issues, or events like grief or divorce. They might become distracted, take more sick leave, and show a lack of enthusiasm. These are all signs of stress impacting their work.
Or perhaps two employees are in conflict, creating a disruptive environment beyond your expertise. This is where an EAP comes in. You can solve these issues by giving access to qualified counsellors and support for crisis management.
Australia’s Mental Health Services are in Chaos
Australia’s mental health services are in chaos. There are long waitlists and a tough process to get help. Employees often need to go through a GP and complete a mental health plan before seeing a professional. An EAP simplifies this, offering easy, no-fuss access to mental health support.
The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics data showed 42 per cent of people who needed to see a mental health professional either delayed or did not see one in 2022-23.
Of those who needed an appointment, 28 per cent didn’t make one because it was too expensive, with the cost of each visit often surpassing $200.
Proactive Mental Health Management
Mental health should be managed like physical health. We know that check-ups, a healthy diet, and exercise can prevent serious health issues. Regular mental health checks and support forestall major issues developing. Counselling is not only for crises; it’s for everyday stress, anxiety, and personal growth.
It’s likely that some of your employees are already experiencing mental ill-health. But remember, there doesn’t have to be something wrong to go to a counsellor.
A qualified counsellor can help with many things. It’s a myth that mental health only affects people who are struggling. In reality, we all have mental health – and we need to take care of it. What does this look like? Learning new tools and techniques along with setting goals is crucial is a start. Managing stress and resolving conflict can be a much more positive experience with an objective person in a private setting.
Understanding Presenteeism vs. Absenteeism
Presenteeism and absenteeism are two critical issues that can impact workplace productivity. Absenteeism is when employees are often absent from work, usually due to illness or personal issues. This is straightforward to measure, as it involves physical absence.
Presenteeism occurs when employees are physically present but not fully productive. Health issues, stress, or other personal problems may distract them at work. Presenteeism is often more costly because it is less visible and harder to measure than absenteeism.
The Financial Benefits of EAP
Implementing an EAP is not just a feel-good investment; it’s also a financial one. In Australia, EAPs are considered a fringe benefit. This means that employers can claim an income tax deduction on the costs of providing an EAP to their employees. However, you will need to check with your accountant and the ATO to ensure your organisation qualifies.
The data shows that businesses using EAPs have less absenteeism. Employees are more likely to stay in the job. So, this isn’t just a feel-good investment (which is awesome). It’s a financial investment in your business and team.
Proactively managing psychosocial hazards at work not only protects workers, it also benefits businesses by improving organisational performance and productivity.
The Cost of Doing Nothing
Let’s look at the numbers. In Australia, the average wage as of 2024 is approximately AUD 89,122 per year. Employees typically take six unscheduled absence days per year, costing a business with 12 employees around AUD 24,678.16 annually.
Presenteeism, is even more costly. According to Gallup, a fully disengaged employee costs 34% of their annual salary.
For an average wage of AUD 89,122, that’s AUD 30,301.48 per disengaged employee. In a workplace of 12 employees, if four are disengaged, it costs the business approximately AUD 121,205.92 per year.
Combined, the cost of absenteeism and presenteeism for a business with 12 employees is around AUD 145,884.08 per year. This doesn’t include the cost of hiring new staff if someone quits.
Why EAP Makes Sense
Reducing these costs should be a priority. An EAP helps prevent and address mental health issues. It reduces absenteeism and presenteeism. It’s a progressive step showing wisdom in your business culture whilst promoting a mentally healthy workplace. A win-win situation! So many organisations we work with ask themselves; Why didn’t we do this earlier?
Introducing an EAP is a smart, proactive investment. It’s about creating a supportive environment where employees can thrive. When we get proactively about mental health we protect our workforce.
Restoring productivity and saving money is always a wise business decision. I passionately believe It’s time to move beyond the notion that counselling is only for crises.
Everyone can benefit from the right tools and strategies and having a confidential person to talk to in a positive setting.
EAPs aren’t reserved for large corporations or emergencies. They are a valuable resource.
Let’s face it the data doesn’t lie, and the financial benefits are crystal clear; but your team’s well-being is priceless.
Need an EAP Service? Get in touch today.
Sources:
https://www.timecamp.com/average-salary/australia/
Mental Health Australia & KPMG. Investing to Save: The Economic Benefits for Australia of Investment in Mental Health Reform.
AIHW. Mental Health Services in Australia: Expenditure on mental health-related services.
Listen to our Podcast
Check out our podcast! We are so excited to be talking all things ‘mentally healthy workplaces’ every Friday EST. Tune to meet and get to know Lou, who is a workplace wellbeing specialist, human behaviour lover & passionate EAP Counsellor. Lou is on a mission to build awareness, understanding, knowledge about mental health and wellness. And Lou wants to make working with a Counsellor as “accepted” as going to the gym is to get physically fit!
Working together for mentally healthy teams
Based on the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula in regional Victoria, we travel across greater Geelong and greater Melbourne for in-person training. And we offer online appointments via phone, Zoom and Skype for those who do not live locally. Contact for more information about employee assistance programs (EAP), leadership coaching or team training resources.
We at The Team Approach recognise the traditional owners of the country where we live and work. We recognise and celebrate the diversity of Indigenous people and their enduring cultures and connections to the land and waters of the Kulin Nation.
office
2/11 Clifton Springs Rd, Drysdale VIC 3222
