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As the phased return to the workplace continues, workers are reevaluating whether their current job provides them with the supports they need.
New research as part of Laya Healthcare’s Brave New Era series, has revealed that 45% of 18-34 year old’s are planning to change jobs in the coming year and 60% of employers are hoping to increase the number of new hires made over the same period. Over 30% are actively looking for an employer who prioritises mental health support in the workplace.
The research also shows that almost half (46%) of referrals into occupational health currently are for mental health reasons, demonstrating how serious a problem this has become.
HR leaders have reported that while productivity has increased by 28% during 2021, this has been at the cost of employees’ mental health, morale and motivation.
This research is one of Ireland’s largest studies among Irish employees and employers in the workplace, which highlights the urgent attention needed by employers to address the mental health issues and concerns of employees.
Since the last Brave New Era report in September 2020, overall mental wellbeing has decreased by 19%, morale is down 23% and motivation has reduced by 17%.
UCC professor and Specialist in Occupational Medicine John Gallagher said:
“The picture is stark. With a large proportion of people using occupational health needing to do so for mental health reasons, it is clear that employers need to do more to intervene at the very earliest signs of a mental health issue to offer supports that can help a person to get back on track and reduce further deterioration of their mental health.
“Companies need to have a mental health strategy that focuses on resources and breaking the stigma of mental health which remains a barrier for many to seek help.”
Sinéad Proos, Head of Health and Wellbeing at Laya Healthcare said “Supporting the mental wellbeing of employees can no longer be a ‘nice to do’; it is essential to building a healthy and sustainable workforce that is able to support businesses growth ambitions,”
Recommendations to support a healthy workforce and The Brave New Era report are available at https://www.layahealthcare.ie/ bravenewera/
