Resource Centre - TELUS Health

Strong leadership boosts Canadian’s mental health by up to 21 points

Written by TELUS Health | January 12, 2026

In the latest version of the Canadian Mental Health Index (MHI) report, we examine how leadership quality impacts employee mental health - especially as AI uncertainty and employer support challenges intensify, affecting women and younger workers in particular. 

The leadership quality gap in mental health

  • Workers with very strong managers have mental health scores up to 21 points higher than those with weak managers. Organizations should invest in leadership training to develop these qualities.
  • Only 62 per cent of workers rate their managers as strongly humane - a critical gap as AI transforms the workplace and human connection becomes more essential than ever.

Clarity about AI’s role in the workplace matters

  • With over half the workforce uncertain about AI-related job changes, leaders have an opportunity to turn anxiety into confidence by transparently communicating how AI will enhance, not replace, their roles.
  • Managers, younger workers, parents and office employees are most affected by AI uncertainty, making them priority audiences for clear, reassuring communications.

Employer support gaps persist

  • Workers with poor employer wellbeing support have mental health scores up to 29 points lower than those with excellent support. Yet, 24 per cent don't even know if their employer offers an EAP - an awareness quick-win that can deliver measurable gains.

Get your copy of the MHI Q4 report

Complete the form to access our latest report and subscribe to receive the TELUS Mental Health Index right in your inbox.

This MHI report is based on a survey of 3,000 workers in Canada. It provides insight into the mental health of employed adults and the trend over time. 

What is the TELUS Mental Health Index (MHI)?

The TELUS Mental Health Index (MHI) is a world-class quarterly research report that measures the full continuum of the mental health status of employees, providing organizations with actionable insights to enhance workplace mental health and wellbeing strategies.

  • Track mental health trends over time: See how global events such as recessions, pandemics and political shifts are impacting the mental health and productivity of your workers – helping you gain insights into the specific support to provide. 
  •  Identify factors impacting employee mental health and wellbeing: Dive into the data to understand how to enhance both health and workplace outcomes. 
  • Benchmarks by industry: Access industry-specific data to see the concerns that are more prevalent in your industry  – helping you be more precise in your understanding of your employees’ needs and helping you make more informed decisions.