Loneliness at work – which can manifest as social isolation from colleagues – leads to reduced job performance, lower job satisfaction and increased turnover intentions, a new survey has found.
According to the research carried out by health non-profit Integrated Benefit Institute (IBI), 13% of the workforce indicated they experience loneliness, with an indication of usually or always experiencing loneliness. Clinically relevant anxiety was reported in 26.7% of the workforce, while clinically relevant depression was reported in 20% of the workforce.
Data from the three-part series focused on mental health among US employees shows that loneliness, is in fact, a significant challenge among employees, affecting morale and performance, as well as turnover. Additionally, anxiety and depression rates were highest among employees who work in-office full time.
WORKPLACE LONELINESS & MENTAL HEALTH
“IBI’s research revealed that individuals experiencing frequent loneliness were more than seven times more likely to suffer from anxiety or depression. This remarkably strong association highlights loneliness as a critical public health concern that we can no longer afford to ignore,” said IBI Researcher Carole Bonner, MET, MSAS, lead author of the report series.
The single highest contributor to anxiety and depression was frequent loneliness ,which is associated with 6.4 times higher odds of anxiety or depression. Those who have social support have reduced odds of loneliness by 91%. Being a parent of a child with mental health needs increased odds of anxiety or depression by 92% and loneliness by 77%.
WORKPLACE MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGES
Employees with clinically relevant anxiety/depression average 4.6 more sick days annually than individuals without those conditions, revealed the study. Employees with anxiety or depression also have higher rates of other chronic health conditions, increasing costs for both the employee and employer. Top comorbidities include musculoskeletal conditions (45.9%), obesity (39.4%), and acute COVID-19 (31.5%).
While the study found loneliness to be a powerful predictor of mental health challenges, the geographic analysis revealed striking regional variations. States like West Virginia, Kentucky, and Utah showed significantly elevated risks of anxiety and depression, while major population centres like Texas and California reported markedly higher rates of new mental health claims. This highlights how both social and regional factors shape America’s mental health landscape.
MENTAL HEALTH SOLUTIONS
IBI’s findings highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to address workforce mental health. Key strategies for employers include:
- Flexible Work Arrangements: Balancing in-office and remote work to mitigate loneliness.
- Early Intervention Programmes: Supporting employees before issues escalate.
- Psychological Safety: Fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
- Overcoming Implementation Barriers: Ensuring mental health initiatives are accessible and effective.
By prioritising these measures, organisations can enhance employee well-being while mitigating the costs associated with poor mental health, noted the study.
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