More than half of workers so stressed, it's affecting performance
Employers across Australia are being urged to carry on their mental health initiatives as a new report finds that employees are getting less support from their managers despite feeling stress.
The latest survey from ADP among over 1,400 Australian employees found that 57% are stressed to the point that it is affecting their work performance.
Despite this, the number of employees saying they feel supported by their managers declined to 56% in 2022, down from the previous 66% in 2021.
According to the respondents, employers are also less likely to check in with them, provide wellbeing days off, offer special counselling services, or allow stress management breaks.
Another 41% of the respondents believe that their managers are ill-equipped to talk about mental health issues without judgment.
Kylie Baullo, Managing Director ANZ at ADP, said it is "crucial" for employers to remain vigilant as employees continue to face a tremendous amount of strain.
"A workplace culture that prioritises empathy and overall well-being holds immense value for both employers and staff," Baullo said in a statement.
"When individuals feel understood and able to take action towards ensuring positive wellbeing, they are more likely to perform their duties effectively, require less sick leave, and hold a more positive outlook towards the company they work for."
Across Australia, various states and territories have been introducing legislation to protect the psychological health of employees, which covers a mandate for employers to manage psychosocial risks in the workplace.
What are employers doing for mental health?
Despite the declining support, however, employees acknowledged that employers utilising team-building activities and employee assistance programmes (EAPs) to boost mental health.
Carrying out such programmes is one measure to formalise wellbeing support systems, according to Baullo.
"It is essential to integrate mental health and stress support mechanisms into the day-to-day working environment and train managers to effectively manage these issues," the managing director said.
Employers are also making progress on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, which 16% of employees said is a key part of their employer's support to boost mental health at work.
