A "crisis of wellbeing" is gripping workplaces as a combination of factors drives employee stress and job dissatisfaction to alarming levels. A survey by employee wellbeing platform Gympass reveals that 48% of employees globally experienced a decline in wellbeing in 2022, with 28% reporting misery at work. In the US, 48% of Americans are dissatisfied with their work wellbeing, and over 25% are "completely unhappy" in their jobs. Recent Gallup data further highlights employee stress at an all-time high, with 60% emotionally detached at work.
This dire situation is a result of escalating stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout caused by a series of uncertainties like the ongoing pandemic and political turmoil. Financial stress has been exacerbated by inflation fears and concerns of a recession. Employers and HR leaders are urged to take action, given the significant impacts of employee stress on job performance, productivity, and absenteeism.
Cesar Carvalho, Gympass founder and CEO, emphasizes that organizations have a responsibility to address this crisis and support employees through better habits. While there's an altruistic aspect to this effort, it also benefits the bottom line when employees are happier, healthier, and more engaged.
While some employers have made strides in mental health and wellbeing initiatives, the data indicates there's more work to be done. Employee wellness practices should include prioritizing mental and physical health, offering local gym memberships, and meditation classes, and incentivizing breaks to recharge. Research predicts increasing commitments to employee wellbeing in the coming years, with many employers planning to make it a top health priority.
The impact of the pandemic on mental health is continuing, making employee wellbeing crucial. Notably, 77% of employees would consider leaving a company that doesn't focus on wellbeing, 83% believe wellbeing is as important as salary, and 85% are more likely to stay if their employer prioritizes wellbeing. Check out the full article from HR Executive.