Starting in March, employed Russians will be able to be referred to a psychiatrist.

      As reported by Izvestia, the changes concern a separate provision allowing employers to refer employees to a psychiatrist if the results of the mandatory periodic medical examination reveal signs of a mental disorder.

      Maria Solovyova, Associate Professor of the Department of Clinical Psychology at the Institute of Clinical Psychology and Social Work of Pirogov University and a Candidate of Medical Sciences, explained that this will enable employers to respond promptly to possible changes in employees' mental health.

      Following an examination by a psychiatrist or psychotherapist, an employee may be temporarily declared unfit to perform certain types of work if a mental disorder is identified.

      The agencies clarify that the initiative is advisory: referral for examination will be the employer's decision upon detection of signs of mental health disorders.