TELUS Health has published its latest Mental Health Index, examining the mental health and productivity of employees in the UK and globally, including the United States, Canada, Europe, Singapore, New Zealand, and Australia.

The UK report highlights the significant impact of physical activity on workplace productivity, revealing that physically active employees lose 12 fewer workdays annually compared to their sedentary peers.

The study also finds a strong correlation between physical health satisfaction and mental health. Employees dissatisfied with their physical health score 25 points lower in mental health metrics and experience 23 additional lost workdays each year compared to those who are satisfied. These findings underscore the critical role of employer-supported wellbeing initiatives in fostering productivity and mental health.

Paula Allen, Global Leader of Research & Client Insights at TELUS Health, emphasised the importance of workplace wellbeing initiatives:
“There is a clear link between physical activity, employer support, and employee wellbeing. Supported, active employees have better mental health and higher productivity—outcomes for which every business owner strives. This underscores the need for organisations to prioritise wellbeing as a strategic pillar of business success.”

Workplace Wellbeing and Productivity Gaps

The Mental Health Index reports concerning disparities in mental health and productivity across various worker groups:

  • Employees uninterested in improving their health lose 20 more workdays annually than those motivated to enhance their wellbeing.
  • Workers who feel unsupported by their employers in terms of physical health lose 28 additional workdays annually and score 16 points lower in mental health compared to those who feel supported.
  • A striking 33% of workers remain at high mental health risk, with 16% reporting anxiety, 12% reporting depression, and 6% reporting sleep disorders.

Philip Mullen, Vice President EMEA at TELUS Health, stressed the importance of employer-driven health initiatives:
“To foster a healthier, more productive work environment, organisations should consider implementing comprehensive wellbeing programs. This includes offering resources like subsidised gym memberships, on-site fitness facilities, or activity challenges and promoting regular movement breaks during the workday. Integrating these measures into workplace culture can significantly improve employee health and engagement.”

Mental Health Index Scores by Region

The September 2024 report also provides a comparative analysis of mental health scores across regions:

  • United States: 70.6
  • United Kingdom: 64.6
  • Canada: 64.4
  • Australia: 61.1
  • Singapore: 61.6
  • Europe: 61.6
  • New Zealand: 59.7

The scoring system used by the Mental Health Index categorises mental health levels into three groups: distress (0–49), strain (50–79), and optimal mental health (80–100).

Gaps in Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)

Despite the availability of Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) in many workplaces, TELUS Health found that 68% of UK workers are uncertain whether their employer offers such programmes. Employees without access to or knowledge of an EAP scored at least three points lower in mental health metrics compared to those with access to EAPs.

The findings suggest that improving awareness and accessibility of EAPs could play a vital role in addressing mental health risks and fostering a healthier, more productive workforce.

Transforming Workplace Culture

The report underscores the need for organisations to make physical and mental wellbeing central to workplace culture. Employers are encouraged to implement a variety of health-focused initiatives, including promoting active commuting, organising fitness challenges, and ensuring that employees have the necessary resources to maintain their health.

As employers increasingly recognise the connection between wellbeing and productivity, strategies that support physical and mental health will be critical for shaping the future of work and driving sustainable business success.