The Anchorage Chamber of Commerce hosted a presentation on Monday as part of their “Make it Monday” forum. The focus was on improving mental wellbeing in the workplace.
Jessica Kopischke, CEO of Frontier Health and Wellness, addressed the audience. She emphasized the need for Alaskans to have better mental health support at work and highlighted where to find treatment options.
Kopischke pointed out that untreated mental health issues are a leading cause of employee disability claims in the U.S. She urged employers to take steps to ensure their staff’s mental wellbeing and create a safe work environment.
“As an employer, it’s crucial to earn your team’s respect by reciprocating it,” Kopischke stressed. “Employees should feel valued and safe in their workplace.”
She also provided tips on how companies can support mental health. “Familiarize yourself with available resources, both at home and in the workplace,” she advised. “Understand your insurance coverage and explore Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).”
Kopischke acknowledged the challenges of accessing mental health treatment in Alaska. “We face limitations here, which makes seeking help tougher,” she said. “Talking about mental health can be difficult, especially in Alaska. But it’s essential to acknowledge when you’re struggling.”
In conclusion, she emphasized, “It’s okay not to be okay. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and it’s important to prioritize your mental health.”
