The WorkAbility Bulletin
Your source of up-to-date news, information, and resources in the world of Mental Health and Employment in Canada.
WORKABILITY NEW PARTNERSHIP
Our collaboration with IDEA-Sil, Workability, and a strong network of industry leaders, researchers, and members of the disability community is powering the 4DY initiative to transform workplace inclusion at scale. By uniting rigorous research, industry expertise, and lived experience, we are developing practical, evidence-based solutions that deliver lasting improvements for diverse young people entering construction, manufacturing, and the skilled trades.
This work strengthens employer capability to attract, recruit, onboard, retain, and advance young people with disabilities across these industries.
Mental health diagnoses are common. Workplace accommodations are not.
A national survey of 5,008 employed Canadians found that ~40% reported having been diagnosed with a mental-illness or neuro-developmental condition at some point, with higher rates among younger workers (18-34), women, and those in the 2SLGBTQ+ community. Despite this prevalence, fewer than half (42%) of those diagnosed disclosed their condition at work. Moreover, only 19% of diagnosed employees reported receiving any formal workplace accommodation for their condition. For employers, these figures carry significant implications: many employees may be working while struggling with issues that affect performance (51% of those diagnosed said their ability to work is at least occasionally impaired) yet feel unable to disclose or seek support. Conversely, when accommodations are made, they are highly effective—83% of those who received support said it helped their job performance. This highlights a major opportunity for organizations: by improving psychological safety, encouraging disclosure, and making meaningful accommodations, employers can bolster productivity, reduce hidden impairment, and support a healthier, more engaged workforce.
The Benefits Gap: What Employers Offer vs. What Employees Want
This 2025 Workforce Vitality Gap Index shows a gap between what Canadian employers offer and what employees need.
Employees cite financial stress, limited flexibility, and inadequate benefits as barriers to satisfaction and performance.
One-size-fits-all benefits are ineffective; workers want personalized support, mental health resources, and work–life balance.
Misaligned offerings risk higher turnover and lower engagement.
The report provides strategies to better meet employee needs and strengthen the workforce.
Want More?
The above information is offered with our quarterly newsletter, supporting employers with up to date resources and reports on Mental Health and Employment and upcoming WorkAbility opportunities.
The above and past issues are available below in PDF form