A new report has revealed that 82% of workers in Asia have a high (35%) to moderate (47%) mental health risk, which highlights a growing concern of workplace wellbeing in Asia.
The Aon TELUS Health Asia Mental Health Index report published in September 2023 explores workplace mental health and the impact on productivity across 12 countries in Asia. The study was conducted by Aon in collaboration with global healthcare company TELUS Health.
Major findings on workplace productivity showed that 45% of respondents across the region report that their mental health is negatively impacting their work while stress, anxiety and burnout are on the rise.
The survey found that 51% of employees reported feeling more sensitive to stress this year compared to last year and 45% of them believe their colleagues are showing more signs of stress this year. Further, 33% of workers are currently finding it difficult to concentrate on their work.
Asian workers managing growing work, home and social pressures, stigma surrounding mental health and the impact of COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to the deterioration of mental health. Public and self-stigma is an overwhelming problem for workplaces and society across Asia.
The report revealed that 54% of employees believe their career options would be limited if their employer knew they had a mental health issue, while 49% said they would worry that friends and family would treat them differently and 49% reported they would feel negatively about themselves.
Aon CEO health solutions Asia Pacific Tim Dwyer said, “Organisations that do not implement support structures or choose to dismiss the impact of mental health in their workplace will realise there is a significant cost in doing nothing.”
Mr Dwyer said, “Organisations must therefore address these issues head-on while developing an integrated strategy informed by data and insights.”
TELUS Health managing director APAC Jamie MacLennan said, “The prevalence of overwhelming and crippling levels of stress within the workplace simply cannot go ignored; far too many people in Asia are dealing with elevated stress, anxiety, isolation and depression, which has a direct correlation to workplace productivity.”
He said, “Many businesses are still not taking the mental health of their staff seriously and when not addressed and supported will lead to decreased productivity and increased absenteeism and presenteeism.” M