Blog Post  Paid Family Leave for Mental Health Conditions

May is mental health awareness month and one of the ways that the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development supports health and well-being in the Commonwealth is through the Massachusetts Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program. PFML provides temporary income replacement and job protections for eligible workers while they are dealing with a serious health condition, as well as when they are welcoming a new child, caring for an ill relative, and during certain military considerations. Many workers in Massachusetts are eligible for PFML—learn more about eligibility.

Can I Use PFML for a Mental Health Condition?

PFML covers serious health conditions, which includes physical and mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety disorders. Eligible workers can request up to 20 weeks of paid medical leave to address serious health issues. There are different ways to schedule paid leave. Individuals being treated for an acute condition may require a continuous leave, while someone managing a chronic condition that has irregular flare ups may request intermittent leave, and someone who needs time off for regularly scheduled appointments may consider a reduced leave schedule. Learn more about what kinds of schedules PFML accommodates.

Since one requirement for applying for paid medical leave is a Certification of your Serious Health Condition form, you will need to work with your health care provider to apply. If you are currently employed, your employer will also be involved in the leave process. You will need to notify them when you apply for PFML and your employer will collaborate with you and the Department of Family and Medical Leave (DFML) to verify your leave schedule and other information associated with your leave. Learn more about the PFML application process.

Supporting Mental Health Wellness in Massachusetts

Despite the growing recognition of the importance of mental well-being, many individuals still face significant barriers in accessing the support they need¹. PFML can help break down some of the existing barriers to mental health care by allowing workers and employers in Massachusetts to address mental health issues proactively. By providing the flexibility needed to attend appointments and adhere to treatment plans, together we can build more inclusive, supportive, and productive workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

^{[1] Coombs NC, Meriwether WE, Caringi J, Newcomer SR. Barriers to healthcare access among U.S. adults with mental health challenges: A population-based study. SSM Popul Health. 2021 Jun 15;15:100847. doi: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.100847. PMID: 34179332; PMCID: PMC8214217.}

By the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development and the Department of Family and Medical Leave.