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With high levels of financial stresssave depression rateand one epidemic of loneliness In the United States, new research indicates that not only are many employees feeling depressed, but it could be impacting their job performance.
Struggling with well-being. Although there is no single definition of well-being, it can be determined by several factors, including emotional and physical health, social well-being, financial security and career. This year, a third of people surveyed believe their well-being is lower than ever, according to sportswear brand Lululemon’s. Global Wellbeing Report. The survey of more than 14,000 people across North America, parts of Europe, East Asia and Australasia was conducted by Edelman Data & Intelligence.
And although low well-being appears to be a problem everywhere, it affects some groups more than others. The study found that 42% of people with disabilities report low well-being, compared to 29% of people without disabilities, and that parents have a 10% higher rate of low well-being (40%) than those who do not. have no children. Gender is also a factor; About half (48%) of men said society has made it difficult to talk openly about their mental health.
Impacts at work. There is still a societal stigma attached to people disclosing mental health issues, including in the workplace. Around 50% of those surveyed said they didn’t feel comfortable talking about their mental health at work. And sharing mental health issues on social media can have unintended consequences for job seekers; A limited study from the University of North Carolina found that people who post about anxiety or depression on LinkedIn are considered more “less emotionally stable” by hiring managers, Fact reported by the company.
Susan Gelinas, senior vice president of people and culture at Lululemon, told HR Brew that employers should create an open dialogue about mental health so employees feel comfortable sharing if they’re experiencing difficulties, noting that the company offers mental health training to its employees. She emphasized the importance of “really providing everyone, not just organizational leaders, with information, resources and support,” so that colleagues are better prepared to have conversations about mental health. .
Low well-being can also impact productivity. Globally, 37% of respondents said they had fallen behind in their work responsibilities due to low well-being. Yet many people don’t prioritize wellbeing, with most (51%) citing financial constraints as a factor.
Many companies offer various benefits to help their employees manage their well-being. For example, Johnson & Johnson offers energy courses, which supports employees on the best way to conserve their energy throughout their personal and professional lives. Employees at clothing retailer Hot Topic can work up to eight hours per quarter volunteer in their community. And Lululemon offers employees a monthly stipend so they can take fitness classes of their choice.
Gelinas believes that well-being is built through a combination of physical, emotional and social health. She recommends that employers “really look at your overall suite of offerings and ask, ‘What are we doing to support all of these areas?’ »