The Great Resignation Impact

The past few years have brought significant changes to the workplace, culminating in what has been dubbed “The Great Resignation.” In 2022 alone, about 50.5 million people quit their jobs, driven by better job prospects, higher wages, and the lure of remote work opportunities (CNBC). This mass exodus highlights the critical need for employers to prioritize the mental health and wellbeing of their workforce.

The Mental Health Crisis

The United States is currently facing a severe mental health crisis. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 90% of U.S. adults believe the country is grappling with this issue, exacerbated by pandemic-related factors like isolation, job loss, and grief.

A startling 76% of U.S. workers report experiencing at least one mental health symptom, and 84% feel that workplace conditions contribute to their mental health challenges. Moreover, 81% of employees seek future workplaces that actively support mental health (KFF).

Employer Awareness and Actions

Employers are increasingly aware of the impact of COVID-19 on mental health and productivity, with 9 out of 10 acknowledging these effects (Health Partners). In response, 70% of employers are taking proactive steps to enhance employee wellbeing by expanding benefits and resources (Health Partners).

Despite these efforts, many employees still anticipate negative impacts on their health and wellbeing when returning to in-person work. The financial toll is significant, with the global cost due to turnover and lost productivity from burnout estimated at $322 billion (Gallup). Additionally, struggling or suffering employees cost businesses an extra $20 million in lost opportunities (Gallup).

Building a Resilient Workplace

To address these challenges and build a resilient workplace, companies should:

• Promote Open Dialogue: Encourage conversations about mental health to reduce stigma.
• Offer Accessible Resources: Provide comprehensive mental health support and resources.
• Implement Flexible Options: Allow for flexible schedules and remote work to support a healthy work-life balance.

Key Takeaways

1. Employee Wellbeing Programs: Investing in these programs is essential for organizational success and longevity.
2. Positive Returns: Supporting mental health leads to enhanced employee satisfaction, productivity, and retention.
3. Proactive Measures: Building a resilient workplace requires proactive steps to address mental health challenges and create a supportive environment.

By focusing on mental health, employers can foster a workplace that not only retains talent but also ensures that employees thrive both personally and professionally.

Resources:

CNBC, KFF, APA/Mindshare Partners, Health Partners, Gallup, Surgeon General, US News