Access to Psychologists and Social Workers and Workplace Absenteeism in Ontario

When workers experience poor mental health, it has significant costs for both individuals and the economy. It affects their overall well-being, income, and productivity (e.g., sickness absences). Workers with poor mental
health need access to adequate mental health services. Thus, this study examines the impact of seeing a psychologist or social worker for mental health reasons on workers’ absences in Ontario and looks at how this
differs between subgroups facing inequalities in accessing mental health support (e.g., males) and higher rates of workplace absences (e.g., hourly-wage earners). We will analyze data from a national survey on health and
apply robust health economics research approaches to estimate this relationship and how it differs by sociodemographic and occupation-related factors. By highlighting the potential for community-based mental
health providers to reduce absences among the workforce, this study can inform policy decisions on improving workplace mental health support and expanding public mental healthcare.

Faculty Supervisor:

Claire de Oliveira

Student:

Partner:

Mental Health Research Canada;The Ontario Psychological Association

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Other services (except public administration); Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Toronto

Program: