Stress at work has reached critical levels and work is suffering, confirmed a new report, coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Week.
The report from ADP Research Institute (ADPRI), which identifies the key emerging and escalating workforce trends of more than 32,000 workers, from 17 countries, shows that workers want change; and are re-evaluating importance of job security and business ethics.
According to the study, nearly seven in 10 (67%) workers say they experience stress at work at least once a week; up from 62% pre-pandemic. In fact, one in seven (15%) feel stressed every day. Key sources of stress include length of the working day (28%); problems with technology (26%); and concerns over job security (25%). The impact on workers professionally, as well as personally, is profound and employers have taken notice by striving to find ways to support their workforce.
POOR MENTAL HEALTH AT WORK
This stress is boiling over into staff job performance; as a staggering 53% of employees believe their work is suffering because of poor mental health. Thankfully, as employers take initiative to support their workforce, seven in 10 workers (70%) admit they feel supported by their managers when it comes to mental health at work; with three quarters (75%) who say they feel supported by their colleagues.
The report also showed that remote and hybrid work are now an established feature of the working world; blurring the distinction between home and the workplace. This shift from the traditional 9-to-5 office-based model cannot be undone and has long-term implications for the jobs market. As companies – and employees – re-evaluate their approach to the workforce, it is clear that having a flexible approach is key; as there are advantages and drawbacks to both exclusively, whether fully remote or fully in office.
RETURN TO OFFICE
Two thirds (64%) of the workforce, however, would consider looking for a new job if they were required to return to the office full time. In fact, contrary to assumptions, younger people (18-24-year-olds) are the most reluctant (71%) to return to the workplace full-time. If it came to it, employees are prepared to make compromises if it meant more flexibility or a hybrid approach to work location; with more than half (52%) willing to accept a pay cut – as much as 11% – to guarantee this arrangement.
Two-tiers of working sentiment are emerging, confirmed the report. Those working from home are more inclined to say they are optimistic (89%) about the next five years, compared to their peers (77%) reporting to an office. They are also more satisfied with employment compared to those working on-premise (90% versus 82%); and almost half (46%) believe working from home has made it easier to be a working parent. However, a quarter (25%) say it has made it harder.
Yet, there is a balance, as those working from home are more likely to feel their work is suffering due to poor mental health compared to their colleagues in the workplace (55% versus 36%). Those working from home are also more prone to working longer hours; as much as an extra 8.7 hours per week.
According to the same study, three quarters of staff worldwide would consider looking for a new job if they discovered their company had an unfair gender pay gap or no diversity and inclusion policy. Click here to read more.
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