Canadian workers are feeling increasingly stressed in the workplace, and it’s largely due to the recession, according to survey results released by Desjardins Financial Security.
The survey of 1,062 workers found that many Canadians feel they have lost control of their lives, which is exacerbated by reports of job losses across the country. One-third of respondents said they felt more stressed out now than they did 12 months ago.
The survey of 1,062 workers found that many Canadians feel they have lost control of their lives, which is exacerbated by reports of job losses across the country. One-third of respondents said they felt more stressed out now than they did 12 months ago.
That stress is taking a physical toll, with 30% of respondents experiencing anxiety, losing sleep, and/or suffering from headaches, muscle aches and other physical tension. Worse still, these are all symptoms that can lead to more serious stress-related illnesses.
The survey also found that 43% are concerned about losing their jobs. While this may cause them to work harder in the short term—54% say their work/life balance has deteriorated—employers risk a fall-off in productivity due to “presenteeism” and increased costs due to short-term disability leave. Mental health claims are the fastest growing category for days lost to disability in Canada.
The near-term prospects do little to allay these fears, as nearly half of workers (47%) expect the recession will persist for more than a year.
“Clearly, many employees have lost confidence and this is showing up in all kinds of ways that could lead to more serious mental health problems down the road,” said Dr. Taylor Alexander, CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) national office.
The CMHA is calling on employers to expand access to workplace mental health programs, and increase funding for these services.
“By investing in their workers, companies are investing in themselves. A mentally healthy workplace typically has fewer disability claims, lower absenteeism and better productivity,” said Michele Nowski, director, disability claims and disability management, with Desjardins. “It really becomes a partnership between employees and employers because employees also have a responsibility to manage their health and stress levels.”
Desjardins suggests that employers offer flex hours and promote a more healthy work/life balance, while workers are encouraged to do what they can to maintain their health and focus on their accomplishments, rather than their problems.
National Mental Health Week runs from May 4 to May 10.
(05/04/09)
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