Managers Can Be the Difference in Changing Mental Health Conversation at the Workplace

A survey of 3,400 people across 10 countries showed that 60% of them agreed that their job was the primary factor affecting their mental well-being.

What’s going on:

A survey from The Workforce Institute at UKG revealed that managers can have just as much of an impact on employees’ mental health as a spouse or partner.

In fact, of the 3,400 people across 10 countries who participated in the survey, 60% of them agreed that their job was the primary factor affecting their mental well-being.

Why it matters:

Due to the lasting effects of stress on all aspects of an employee’s life — from home life to relationships and job performance — over 80% of people globally and 70% of U.S. workers would forgo pay in exchange for a job that promotes positive mental health.

However, the survey shows that leaders are off course when it comes to understanding worker mental health, with nine out of ten HR and C-suite leaders asserting that their workplaces have a beneficial effect on employees’ mental health (only half of the workers themselves would concur).

How it’ll impact the future:

Managers will become more inclined to lead by example when it comes to destigmatizing mental health in the workplace.

By being open about their own struggles, encouraging open dialogue and taking time off work when necessary, leaders can benefit from a more efficient workforce, high retention and an overall nurturing culture.