Research highlights the productivity advantages of physically active employees, who work an average of 12 more days per year than their inactive peers.
- Physically active employees show fewer workday losses due to health-related issues, enhancing overall productivity compared to sedentary counterparts.
- Substantial differences in mental health scores are evident between workers satisfied with their physical health and those who are not, affecting productivity by an additional 23 days a year.
- Employer support plays a crucial role in employee wellness, with significant productivity gains linked to supportive workplace environments.
- A large portion of workers remain unaware of available Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), potentially missing out on vital support resources.
The recent findings from the TELUS Mental Health Index illustrate a significant difference in productivity between physically active employees and their sedentary colleagues. On average, active employees experience 12 fewer days of productivity loss annually, underscoring the tangible benefits of physical activity in the workplace. This disparity highlights the importance of promoting physical health to boost work efficiency.
Further insights from the index reveal a striking difference in mental health scores between employees content with their physical health and those dissatisfied. Dissatisfied workers not only scored 25 points lower in mental health assessments but also lost an additional 23 workdays per year. These figures demonstrate the interconnectedness between physical and mental well-being and its impact on workplace productivity.
The role of employer support in enhancing employee wellness cannot be overstated. Employers who integrate supportive health and wellness programs within the workplace can foster a more productive and resilient workforce. Programs like Employee Assistance and physical health initiatives can lead to substantial improvements in employee engagement and productivity, which are key goals for many organizations.
However, a significant number of employees remain unaware of their access to potentially helpful resources such as Employee Assistance Programs. In the UK, 68% of surveyed workers are uncertain if such programs are available at their workplace. This lack of awareness could hinder employees from receiving the support necessary to maintain their well-being and productivity.
Additional findings of the TELUS index indicate that employees uninterested in improving their health experience a loss of 20 more workdays per year compared to their motivated counterparts. Furthermore, those perceiving inadequate employer support report 28 additional lost workdays and significantly lower mental health scores. These statistics emphasize the necessity for proactive measures to support employee health.
The findings stress the importance of physical activity and employer support in cultivating a productive and healthy workforce.
