More than two-thirds (68 per cent) of Canadian employees say the rising cost of food and groceries is heavily affecting their stress levels during work hours, according to a new survey by ADP Canada Co.
The survey, which polled more than 1,200 workers, found planning for major expenses (62 per cent) and the rising cost of living (59 per cent) significantly impact their stress levels during the workday.
Canadians’ happiness in the workplace decreased to 6.6 points out of 10 in May, down slightly from 6.8 in April. Nearly half (44 per cent) of workers said they felt satisfied with their current roles and responsibilities, down from 47 per cent in April. Work-life balance (6.8) continued to score high, followed by recognition and support in the workplace (6.5), compensation and benefits (6.1) and career advancement options (6).
Read: Canadians’ happiness with work-life balance, employer support increases in April: survey
Baby boomers reported a notable drop in happiness from 7.5 to 7.1, but they continued to be the happiest generation. Generation Z was second (6.8) and was the only generation that reported an increased happiness score in May, followed by millennials and generation X, each at 6.5.
Regionally, Atlantic Canada and Quebec (6.9 out of 10 each) were the happiest regions, while Alberta (6.3 out of 10) recorded their lowest score, falling to last place.
“With workers in Canada noting economic turmoil as a daily stressor, employers must remain mindful of how external factors may impact their workforce’s wellbeing,” said Heather Haslam, vice-president of marketing at ADP Canada, in a press release. “Leading with empathy and encouraging open communication can help support employees when stress levels are high.”
Read: IKEA Canada offering emergency grants, discounts to help workers combat inflation