- This World Mental Health Month (October 2024), ADP's flagship People at Work 2024 report reveals that Australians experience stress 12 times per week, the highest stress rate in APAC
More than half (57%) of Australian workers feel stress adversely impacts their work
The rising cost of living, growing workplace demands, and a general sense of unease may be contributing factors to the heightened levels of unease
Australians have reported that they experience stress, on average, 12 times per week, topping the list for the most stressed country out of APAC. Additionally, more than half (57%) of Australian workers believe that stress adversely impacts their work, according to payroll and HR solution provider, ADPs' flagship People at Work 2024 Report.
Out of the countries surveyed, Australia is the highest rated country for stress in APAC. India followed closely behind, with most saying on average they experience stress 11 times per week.
Despite increased awareness of the importance of mental health at work, including this month during World Mental Health Month 2024, the findings illustrate that some Australian workplaces continue to struggle with supporting their employees in this area. This persistent workplace stress is not only detrimental to productivity but also has a significant impact on employees' mental health.
Further to this, SafeWork NSW has highlighted that rising stress levels among workers can lead to significant mental and physical health consequences. From an organisational perspective, this often translates into increased absenteeism, sick leave, and higher staff turnover.
Additionally, The Black Dog Institute has identified the main causes of work-related mental stress in Australia, with work pressure (31%), work-related harassment and/or bullying (27%), and workplace violence (14%) being the most common. These statistics highlight the strong link between workplace stress and the broader mental health challenges employees face.
On the other hand, the World Health Organisation recently estimated that when employees experience good health and well-being management, performance is increased by more than 2.5 times*, further reinforcing the link between workers' well-being, mental health, and productivity.
Judy Barnett, Operations Director at ADP Australia, said, "While many Australian businesses continue to prioritise the mental well-being of their employees, our data shows that there is still room for improvement.
"Even with strategic workplace programs in place, the lack of personal support and networks on the ground can still lead to poor mental health, which can negatively impact an employee's engagement, job satisfaction, and workplace productivity."
Barnett said, "Employers should consider re-evaluating existing mental health programs, normalising conversations around mental health, and providing resources to help workers improve their skills in managing conversations in this sensitive space. Implementing or improving valuable third-party resources, such as an Employee Assistance Program, is also an excellent way to provide confidential support and help handle difficult conversations."
Two local businesses who are getting it right include:
Shaun Bettman, Mortgage Broker at Eden Emerald Mortgages, Sydney, Australia
Eden Emerald Mortgages focuses on employee mental health through a tailored approach with their, "Wellness Wednesdays," program. Each month, a wellness coach works individually with their employees to develop personalised mental health strategies, such as stress management, mindfulness, or dietary adjustments.
Additionally, they've introduced "peer support groups," fostering cross-team support by pairing employees from different departments to regularly check in.
Matt Little, Founder of Festoon House, Sydney, Australia
Festoon House, an e-commerce store selling party lighting, emphasises mental health as a core part of its company culture.
They offer flexible remote work options, allowing employees to better balance their work and personal lives.
The company also holds regular wellness workshops on topics like stress management, mindfulness, and staying organised. Another popular initiative is "No-Meeting Wednesdays," which allows employees to focus on their work without interruptions, giving them a mental break from the usual fast-paced environment.
For more insights on employee mental health in the workplace, please read the 'People at Work 2024: A Global Workforce View' report.
