Ohio Chamber Launches Mental Health Toolkit for Employers

Columbus, OH – The Ohio Chamber of Commerce Research Foundation (OCCRF) has launched its new Mental Health Toolkit for Employers, a comprehensive resource designed to help businesses across Ohio better support the well-being of their workers.

Developed with the support of Alkermes, Bon Secours Mercy Health, Cigna Healthcare and The Ohio State University, this new resource was unveiled during a press conference at the Ohio Chamber offices in downtown Columbus. Speakers included Demetrius Thomas, Executive Director of OCCRF, and Dr. Andrew Thomas, Chief Clinical Officer at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.

“Mental health is not just a personal issue, it’s a workforce and economic issue,” said Ohio Chamber President & CEO Steve Stivers.

“Employers can have a direct impact on the mental health of their workforce, and this toolkit gives them the materials they need to support their employees and strengthen their businesses.”

Research conducted during the toolkit’s formation revealed that well-designed mental health programs generate measurable returns for companies by reducing healthcare costs, boosting productivity and improving retention. According to Deloitte, every one dollar invested into employee mental health returns, on average, $1.62 to $5+.

While absenteeism is a commonly known effect of employee mental health struggles, an even greater – and less known – threat is presenteeism, reduced capacity while still physically at work. Presenteeism causes 5.1x greater losses than absenteeism, and employees who battle depression face an average 35% reduction in productivity.

The Mental Health Toolkit equips employers with:

• Targeted resources to support high-risk and underserved employee populations
• HR tools and policy templates to help businesses implement effective mental health strategies
• Training materials for business leaders and managers to recognize and respond to mental health challenges
• Connections to service providers to improve employee access to care
• Best practices and case studies from Ohio employers

“This is about giving employers actionable solutions,” said Stivers. “When businesses invest in mental health, they see real returns in the strength and stability of their workforce.”

The Ohio Chamber Research Foundation will continue to expand the toolkit and work with employers, service providers and community partners to ensure it remains a relevant and effective resource for businesses of all sizes.

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