Sun Life Financial Canada has conducted an analysis of its database of long term-term disability (LTD) claims experienced by its 1.5-million plan members with disability insurance. Summarizing their findings in the company’s recent Designed for Health report, Sun Life states that drug claims to treat mental disorders for those under the age of 30 increased 24 per cent between 2019 and 2021. The company also observed a 51 per cent increase in mental health paramedical claims for people under 35 during that time. All told, 16 per cent of Sun Life’s total drug claims in 2021 were for mental disorders.
“Mental disorders continue to be the main driver of disability claims. Over half of all disability claims for those under 44 are for mental disorders. Quicker recoveries and better long-term outcomes are often seen by those with early access to care,” they state. “The need for mental health support is huge and continues to grow.”
To help, Sun Life encourages plan sponsors to increase annual coverage maximums for mental health care. They state that the Canadian Psychological Association, for example, recommends coverage for 15-20 sessions, around $3,500 to $4,000, the average number of sessions required to achieve a therapeutic outcome for people suffering from depression or anxiety.
“Even if your budget does not allow you to reach the recommendation, an increase in your coverage will help put your employees in a better position to access the care they need,” the report states. It also looks at virtual care options, leadership training and employee awareness. Complex claims, demographics and disability patterns by industry and by employer size are also examined.
“Review this report and consider how the insights might apply to your workforce,” they conclude. “Drive awareness of programs and issues through employee education and mental health training for leaders. Assess your data frequently and make tweaks to your strategy where needed.”
