Michigan launches worker mental health hub

Lansing, MI — Workers in Michigan and their employers have new online resources and tools aimed at improving mental health.

Launched by the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, the online hub includes materials on workplace stress, mental health and suicide prevention in construction from the U.S. Department of Labor, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. surgeon general, Gallup, the Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, and others.

A 21-page report details the findings and strategies of a statewide work group focused on mental health, trauma and resiliency at work, at the direction of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D). 

A renewed focus on mental health is “critical to building strong workplaces, a strong workforce and strong communities,” states the report, which includes nine recommendations for the state to consider. Among them:

• Ensure the state is a model employer to other businesses for workplace mental health and safety.
• Give preference to organizations that include employee mental health improvement strategies in state procurement or grant processes.
• Develop state-specific data tools for tracking progress on improving workplace mental health and safety.
• Offer financial support from the state for businesses that implement employee mental health strategies.
• Provide opportunities for employers to learn about successful strategies and programs across the country and peer-sharing among employers in the state.