Physical Activity Linked to Improved Mental Health and Productivity

What You Should Know: 

– TELUS Health has released its latest Mental Health Index, shedding light on the mental health of employed individuals across the globe. The US report reveals a significant connection between physical activity, workplace wellness programs, and employee productivity.

– The TELUS Mental Health Index is based on an online survey of 5,000 employed individuals in the United States. The data provides valuable insights into workplace mental health, productivity, and the impact of factors like physical activity and employer support.

The Impact of Physical Activity

The Index found that physically active workers lose 14 fewer workdays of productivity annually compared to their sedentary counterparts. Additionally, workers dissatisfied with their physical health score 25 points lower in mental health and lose an additional 21 working days in productivity each year.

These findings highlight the importance of physical activity in promoting both physical and mental well-being, which ultimately contributes to a more productive workforce.

Key Findings from the Index

The TELUS Mental Health Index also uncovered several other important insights:

• Gender Disparities in Healthcare: Women are 40% more likely than men to report negative experiences with the healthcare system.
• Employer Support for Well-being: Workers who perceive poor employer support for their physical well-being experience lower mental health scores and reduced productivity.
• Financial Stress and Mental Health: Employees without emergency funds are more likely to experience anxiety and depression and seek stress reduction activities.
• Generational Differences in Motivation: Younger workers are more likely to cite stress reduction as a motivator for physical activity.
• Prevalence of Mental Health Concerns: A significant portion of employees report experiencing anxiety, depression, cardiovascular issues, and sleep disorders.

Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)

Despite the benefits of EAPs in supporting employee mental health, the Index found that many workers are unaware of what an EAP entails or whether their employer offers one. This highlights the need for increased awareness and education surrounding EAPs.

Global Mental Health Scores

The Index also provides a snapshot of mental health scores across different regions, with the United States scoring highest and New Zealand scoring lowest.

“There is a clear link between physical activity, employer support and employee wellbeing. At  TELUS Health, we’ve seen that supported, active employees have better mental health and higher  productivity – outcomes for which every business owner strives,” said Paula Allen, Global Leader,  Research & Client Insights, TELUS Health. “This underscores the need for organizations to  prioritize wellbeing as a strategic pillar of business success. By integrating robust support systems  like Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and physical health and wellbeing programs into  workplace culture, companies can create a more resilient, engaged and productive workforce.”