A recent study by the health and life insurance company Vitality reveals that Generation Z is losing an equivalent of one workday each week due to mental health challenges, which translates to an average of 54 unproductive days per year. This phenomenon is particularly prominent among Gen Z employees in the UK, who may show up to work but are not functioning at their full potential. The findings highlight a significant issue within the workforce, where mental health struggles are impacting overall productivity.
The broader implications of these mental health struggles extend beyond individual experiences, significantly affecting the economy. Vitality’s report notes that nonproductive workdays have collectively cost the UK economy over $178 billion. Similarly, research from Gallup has indicated that dissatisfied and disengaged workers in the US contribute to an estimated $8.8 trillion loss globally. These staggering figures underscore the urgency of addressing mental health issues within the workplace.
The study, which analyzed responses from 4,000 individuals, revealed alarming statistics about the mental health of younger workers. Gen Z employees are reported to be 224% more likely to experience depression compared to their older counterparts. Additionally, those earning less than $38,000 annually feel more neglected by their employers, further exacerbating their mental health challenges. Despite these struggles, only a quarter of the surveyed workers reported utilizing their companies’ wellness resources, suggesting a disconnect between available support and employee engagement.
Vitality’s CEO, Neville Koopowitz, emphasizes the potential benefits of effectively managing health at work, noting that both businesses and the broader economy could significantly gain from such initiatives. In the US context, it has been observed that Gen Z workers are more inclined to take mental health days off, reflecting a generational shift in attitudes towards mental well-being. This shift highlights the importance of creating a supportive work environment that addresses mental health needs.
Experts like Lucy Kemp suggest that while Gen Z is more attuned to recognizing and prioritizing their mental health, they are also confronted with unprecedented stressors. This awareness leads to a greater likelihood of taking time off work for mental health reasons, a practice that older generations were less accustomed to. As the workplace continues to evolve, addressing the mental health needs of younger workers will be crucial for fostering a productive and healthy work environment.
