Workers dissatisfied with their physical
health score 22 points lower in mental health than satisfied
workers and lose an additional 21 working days in productivity
annually.
TORONTO, Nov. 19,
2024 /CNW/ - Today, TELUS Health released its TELUS
Mental Health Index reports examining the mental health of employed
people in Canada, the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, Singapore, New
Zealand and Australia. The
Canadian report revealed that physically active workers lose
10 fewer work days of productivity annually than their sedentary
counterparts. The Index also found that workers dissatisfied with
their physical health score 22 points lower in mental health and
lose 21 more days of productivity annually than satisfied
counterparts.
"There is a clear link between physical activity, employer
support and employee wellbeing. At TELUS Health, we've seen that
supported, active employees have better mental health and higher
productivity - outcomes for which every business owner strives,"
said Paula Allen, Global Leader,
Research & Client Insights, TELUS Health. "This underscores
the need for organizations to prioritize wellbeing. By integrating
robust support systems like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
into workplace culture, companies can create a more resilient,
engaged and productive workforce."
The TELUS Mental Health Index also found:
- Women are 40 per cent more likely than men to report a
negative experience with the healthcare system.
- Workers perceiving poor employer support for their physical
wellbeing lose 22 more work days of productivity annually and score
22 points lower in mental health than those perceiving excellent
support.
- Workers uninterested in improving health lose 14 more work
days in productivity annually than those motivated.
- Stress reduction motivates 12 per cent of workers to
exercise.
- Nine per cent of workers surveyed never engage in physical
activity.
- Less than 10 per cent of workers report engaging in activities
that promote social wellbeing.
- Twenty-two per cent of employees report anxiety, 14 per
cent depression and 13 per cent sleep disorders.
- Employees without emergency funds are twice as likely to seek
stress reduction and report anxiety or depression diagnoses.
- Mental health conditions are disproportionately reported among
younger workers, women and those without savings.
"Organizations can make a real difference by offering practical
solutions like virtual fitness classes, on-site fitness amenities
and engaging wellbeing challenges," said Dr. Matthew Chow, Chief Mental Health Officer, TELUS
Health. "These initiatives create healthier, more engaged
workforces while providing options to address the diverse needs and
wants of employees. I've witnessed first-hand how such support
empowers individuals to step out of their comfort zones and embrace
the benefits of physical activity. Without these initiatives, many
wouldn't take those crucial first steps towards positive change
that ripple out to benefit their colleagues, families and
communities."
While many workplaces offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
that help support employee wellbeing, including physical wellbeing,
TELUS Health research reveals that two-in-five workers in
Canada lack knowledge of what an
EAP entails. The mental health score of workers who don't know or
report that their employer doesn't offer an EAP is at least three
points lower than workers with an EAP.
In September 2024, the mental
health scores of workers in various regions were:
- Canada: 64.4
- United States: 70.6
- United Kingdom: 64.6
- Europe: 61.6
- Australia: 61.1
- New Zealand: 59.7
- Singapore: 61.6
The TELUS Mental Health Index is based on a response scoring
system that turns individual responses into point values. Higher
point values are associated with better mental health and less
mental health risk. Scores between 0 to 49 correspond with distress
levels, scores between 50 to 79 correspond with strain levels and
scores between 80 to 100 correspond with optimal levels of mental
health.
This TELUS Mental Health Index also includes insights related to
experiences with the healthcare system, diets and mental health
diagnoses. As a company rooted in social purpose, TELUS Health is
committed to improving health outcomes and sharing valuable
insights. Read the full Canadian TELUS Mental Health Index
here.
About the TELUS Mental Health Index
The data for the
TELUS Health Mental Health Index was collected through an online
survey in English and French from September
13 to September 30 with 3,000 respondents. All respondents
reside in Canada and were employed
within the last six months. The data has been statistically
weighted to ensure the regional and gender composition of the
sample reflects this population.
About TELUS Health
TELUS Health is on a mission to become the most trusted wellbeing
company in the world by enhancing the overall efficiency of
healthcare and championing workplace wellbeing. By integrating
advanced healthcare technology with comprehensive employee support
services, TELUS Health provides a holistic approach to primary and
preventive health and wellbeing for over 76 million people across
160 countries. Our innovative digital health platforms, including
electronic medical records (EMRs) and virtual care solutions,
empower healthcare professionals, employers and governments to
deliver personalized care efficiently. Our employee wellbeing
programs empower individuals by offering extensive support through
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), mental health resources,
financial counselling, and workplace wellness initiatives. At TELUS
Health, we are committed to revolutionizing healthcare to ensure
people receive the support they need and employees thrive both
personally and professionally. Together, let's make the future
friendly. For more information, visit: www.telushealth.com.
Media Contact:
Marielle Hossack
TELUS Health
marielle.hossack@telus.com
SOURCE TELUS Health