How Work Impacts Wellbeing
Work isn't just about earning a paycheck. Our professional lives play a significant role in shaping our overall wellbeing. From workplace conditions and job satisfaction to work-life balance, the various facets of our jobs can have profound effects, both positive and negative. Let's dive into the statistics to understand how exactly work influences our wellbeing.
1. Mental Health and Work Stress
A recent study by Mental Health America highlighted that 64% of employees feel their work environment has contributed to their mental health symptoms.
Work-related stress accounts for 57% of all working days lost due to ill health in the UK, as per the Health and Safety Executive.
2. Work-Life Balance and Personal Time
A Gallup poll found that 40% of Americans working over 50 hours per week reported feeling highly stressed, suggesting a direct link between long work hours and heightened stress levels.
Nearly one-third of workers report high levels of difficulty managing work and family, according to the American Psychological Association.
3. Workplace Relationships and Social Wellbeing
Harvard Business Review emphasizes the importance of casual colleagues' friendships, citing they can enhance job satisfaction, emotional wellbeing, and even boost organizational loyalty.
4. Financial Wellbeing and Job Security
A survey by PwC indicated that 54% of employees are stressed about their finances, and those who are stressed are more likely to cite health issues affected by financial stress.
Job security remains a paramount concern, with 34% of employees fearing job loss, as mentioned by Willis Towers Watson.
5. Physical Wellbeing and Ergonomics
A study in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine highlighted that improper office ergonomics can lead to musculoskeletal issues in 20-30% of workers, impacting their physical wellbeing significantly.
Conclusion
Work doesn't just impact our professional trajectory; it has a profound influence on our overall wellbeing. Understanding these implications, organizations can foster environments that prioritize employee wellbeing, leading to not just a happier workforce but also enhanced productivity.
Incorporating wellbeing measures into the workplace is an ongoing journey. Platforms like WellB bridge the gap between work and wellbeing, offering tailored solutions for today's workforce.