Mental Health Struggles Among Indian Employees

Insights from the Report

According to the Asian Mental Health Index report by Aon and TELUS Health, more than half of Indian employees report feeling exhausted after logging off from work, with over 60% noticing their colleagues experiencing stress. The report, which surveyed 13,000 workers across 12 Asian countries, highlights significant mental health challenges in India.

Mental Health Index Score

The Mental Health Index score for India stands at 64, indicating strained mental health among employees, albeit slightly higher than the median. An index score above 80 is considered optimal, while scores between 50 and 79 are categorized as ‘strained,’ and anything below indicates distress.

Impact on Workplace Productivity

Over 53% of Indian employees find their mental health affecting their effectiveness at work, with over 45% struggling more to concentrate than the previous year. India ranks among the nations where a significant proportion of employees face productivity challenges due to mental health issues.

Economic Implications

Mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety, lead to reduced productivity, absenteeism, presenteeism, and increased turnover. Globally, these conditions are estimated to cost the economy $1 trillion annually in lost productivity.

Financial Insecurity

Financial insecurity compounds the mental health challenges faced by the working-age population in Asian nations, including India. Factors like cost-of-living challenges, rising healthcare costs, and economic uncertainties contribute to this insecurity.

Importance of Emergency Funds

Only 33% of Indians surveyed have emergency funds to cover essential expenses for over three months, while 21% plan to start one in the current year. Employees with emergency savings are better equipped to handle workplace stress, highlighting the role of financial preparedness in productivity.

Age Disparities

Younger employees, particularly those under 40, face more significant mental health challenges compared to older counterparts. The 20-29 age group exhibits the highest mental health risk, indicating the need for targeted support and interventions for young professionals.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the urgent need for organizations to prioritize mental health support for employees, address workplace stressors, and promote financial resilience. By fostering a supportive work environment and implementing holistic wellness initiatives, employers can mitigate the impact of mental health issues and enhance employee well-being and productivity.