The ADP Research Institute People at Work 2022: A Global Workforce study states that this figure rises to five in 10 (53%) among the cohort aged 18 to 24 years old, and 52% of 25 to 34-year-olds, compared with two in 10 (26%) aged over 55. The report explores employees’ attitudes towards the current world of work and what they expect and hope for from the workplace of the future.
The findings, based on a poll of almost 1,400 workers in the UK, come as studies indicate that, in addition to the anxiety induced by health fears and the uncertainty and disruption caused by lockdowns, Covid-19 infection itself can increase the risk of mental health problems developing, and mental health services have been interrupted in many countries. According to the charity Mind, a third of adults and young people say their mental health has become much worse since March 2020.
In addition, the frequent stress that many workers around the world were already feeling appears to have been exacerbated since the pandemic. About 14% of UK workers say they experience stress at work at least once a week, and 19% feel stressed every day. The most common cause of stress is having increased responsibility as a result of the pandemic, as 32% of workers attest.
Other key sources of stress cited include the length of the working day (27%), problems with technology (23%), and concerns about job security (22%). The pandemic has also affected employees in other ways. For instance, 8% of UK workers said being asked if they are vaccinated is a cause of stress, while 7% of stress comes from having to share a workspace with someone they live with.
Read our blog to find out why mental health first aid is important in the workplace.
How Poor Mental Health Affects Individual Performance
Reduced Concentration and Focus
Poor mental health can lead to difficulty concentrating and maintaining focus on tasks. This can result in decreased productivity and lower quality of work.
Increased Errors and Mistakes
Mental health issues such as anxiety and depression can impair cognitive functioning, leading to an increased likelihood of making errors or mistakes on tasks. This can result in rework, delays, and potentially negative consequences for the individual and the organisation.
Decreased Motivation and Engagement
Individuals experiencing poor mental health may struggle to feel motivated or engaged in their work. This can lead to decreased initiative, creativity, and enthusiasm, resulting in lower levels of performance and contribution to the team.
Impaired Decision-Making
Mental health issues can cloud judgment and impair decision-making abilities. Individuals may struggle to weigh options, assess risks, and make sound choices, leading to suboptimal outcomes and potentially costly mistakes.
Increased Absenteeism and Presenteeism
Poor mental health can lead to increased absenteeism as individuals may need time off to address their mental health needs. Additionally, even when present at work, individuals may experience presenteeism, where they are physically present but unable to perform at their best due to mental health issues, further impacting performance.
How Can IAMH Support Your Organisation?
Our IAMH programme is designed to support organisations in fostering a positive mental health environment across global teams. The training offered by IAMH recognises the vital role of virtual support and ensures consistent training for teams worldwide. By joining a global community that embraces mental wellbeing, your organisation can empower individuals and create a culture of thriving that transcends geographical locations.
International Mental Health Advocates (IAMH) serve as dedicated individuals who actively promote mental health awareness and provide valuable resources and assistance to their colleagues. The training encompasses mental health education within a global context, including statistics, non-medical approaches, and cultural variations. This equips advocates to act as the first line of defence in identifying and addressing mental health concerns, offering early intervention and support.
IAMH promotes the standardisation of mental health support, fostering collaboration and ensuring consistent resources and assistance are available to all employees, regardless of location. This programme is ideal for those new to mental health roles and those seeking to deepen their knowledge and enhance their ability to support a global community, ultimately contributing to a healthier, more supportive workplace.
