Why it's important to prioritise mental health in the workplace, especially post-pandemic

5. October 2021
Topics: HLB International
Author: HLB. Marina Kooijmans, Chief People Officer

Every 10 October, World Mental Health Day reminds people around the globe that mental health issues matter and should be supported. Mental health considerations are particularly important in the workplace, where many people spend a third or more of their waking hours.

The last 18 months, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, took a toll on many professionals’ mental health, whether we realise it or not. The effects from the pandemic on mental health are not likely to change soon.

HLB-mental-health

A recent global study by Motivosity found well-being has plummeted during the pandemic. Consider:

  • Anxiety symptoms increased from 6.33% to 50.9%.
  • Depression symptoms increased from 14.6% to 48.3%.
  • Stress symptoms increased from 8.1% to 81.9%.
  • PTSD increased from 7% to 53.8%.

The mental health issues encountered due to the pandemic put employee engagement – a factor that’s highly related to productivity, retention and profit – in jeopardy as companies navigate a continued remote work situation.