Twenty-six per cent of workers in Canada prioritize wellbeing support over salary increase
TORONTO, Nov. 29, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TELUS Health today released its monthly TELUS Mental Health Index, revealing that workers who experience conflict at work lose an average of 55 work days per year. The Index also found that among workers in Canada, 26 per cent say better support for their wellbeing is more important than an increase in salary.
“The negative impacts of stress, whether stemming from external factors or internal dynamics within the workplace, have a ripple effect throughout an organization, impacting every level,” said Juggy Sihota, Chief Growth Officer, TELUS Health. “The wellbeing of workers and the success of the business are inherently connected. By prioritizing investments in tools, processes and comprehensive benefits plans that foster a psychologically safe and supportive work environment, employers can cultivate a highly engaged and productive workforce that drives business outcomes."
Mental health and work-related stressors linked to productivity loss at work
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Twenty-eight per cent of workers in Canada have a mental health score of 50 or lower. The productivity loss of this group is at least double the number of days compared to the 13 per cent of workers with a mental health score of 90 or higher.
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Among workers reporting diagnosed depression and anxiety, there is a loss of 55 and 53 working days per year in productivity, respectively.
Workers in Canada seek support for wellbeing through health benefits plans
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When asked about their most valued elements of health benefits, a majority of workers in Canada prioritize dental benefits (51 per cent), followed by prescription medication (47 per cent), and vision care (32 per cent).
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Workers under 40 are more than twice as likely as workers over 50 to value psychological services the most.
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The highest mental health score (70.4) is among the 39 per cent of workers who find fulfillment in a balanced personal/work life. The mental health score of this group is nearly seven points higher than the national average.
"As mental health scores continue to be at a sub-optimal level, workers are increasingly aware that financial and mental wellbeing are deeply interconnected, and that overall wellbeing involves far more than just a salary," said Paula Allen, Global Leader, Research & Client Insights, TELUS Health. "In today’s uncertain economic environment, it is very telling that workers are placing equal, if not greater, importance on wellbeing support compared to their salary. This highlights a significant opportunity for employers to meet employees’ needs by providing resources and real-time support that go beyond financial considerations in order to maintain morale and ultimately retain top talent."