Gen Z and young millennial employees in Britain are losing a significant amount of work time — equivalent to about one day per week — due to mental health issues, according to research conducted by Vitality.
The study reveals that, on average, U.K. workers feel unable to work for nearly 50 days a year, according to a report published by Fortune. The total number of missed out days increases for younger workers under 30. This younger demographic is reported to lose up to 60 productive days a year, on average.
These missed days at work is costing the British economy around £138 billion.
The study reveals a specific issue in employer support for well-being programs, particularly for younger workers. According to Fortune, while physical health issues reduce productivity by 54%, mental health problems cause a much larger 150% drop. Younger workers are experiencing higher rates of depression, burnout, and fatigue compared to older generations.
Additionally, those earning less than £30,000 feel significantly more neglected by their workplaces. Younger workers, Gen Z and Millennials, are also grappling with higher rates of workplace loneliness than older generations.
Despite the availability of employer-provided wellness tools and programs, Vitality reveals only 25% out of 4,000 employees surveyed use them. This suggests a lack of awareness or reluctance from employees to seek mental health support from employers.
The data suggests that employers need to be more proactive in offering and promoting mental health resources. Addressing these mental health challenges is essential for maintaining a productive, engaged workforce and for the overall health of the economy.
