More than 105 million people in the United States are caregivers, and half are full-time employees outside of the home. Juggling the responsibilities of professional life and caregiving can contribute to stress, burnout, and even workplace injuries. It is critical that we provide the support and resources caregivers need to succeed in the home, in the workplace, and in all aspects of life.

Since 1996, the National Safety Council (NSC) has designated June as National Safety Month to draw attention to the leading causes of preventable injury and death in the workplace.

Mental health challenges and substance use disorders present some of the most pressing and complex issues for worker safety. In fact, the most common injuries reported (52%) are related to mental health issues like stress and anxiety. Research also shows that employees with substance abuse issues are 3.5 times more likely to be involved in a workplace accident. Caregivers face unique challenges given a disproportionate risk for substance use disorders and with nearly 70 percent managing symptoms of depression.

These are not just abstract numbers — they reflect the lived experience of real people facing real harm. Workplaces must prioritize employee mental health, addiction prevention, and recovery support.

As part of Caregiver Action Network, the Families, Addiction and Mental Health Network (FAM) supports work environments that are safe for caregivers, with resources including:

• Employer Policy Recommendations: Provides best practices and policy recommendations for fostering a compassionate, inclusive, and productive workplace for caregivers.
• Understanding Caregiver Stress Syndrome: Outlines the symptoms of caregiver stress syndrome to help individuals identify when to seek help.
• Understanding Caregiver Burnout and Compassion Fatigue: Outlines the symptoms of burnout and compassion fatigue to identify signs and help individuals take steps to ensure well-being.
• How to Help a Caregiver: Provides simple ways to provide support and care for caregivers.

As a lifelong advocate for older adults, I, and everyone at CAN, appreciate the deep significance of National Safety Month, because safety is the foundation of quality care — especially in long-term care settings, where vulnerable populations rely on us for their well-being. This National Safety Month, I urge every employer, manager, and safety leader to reflect on what your organization is doing to keep caregivers safe. Are your policies current? Do your employees know where to turn for help?

Learn more and find more resources to support caregivers: https://www.fam-network.org/resources/