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Employees around the world are continuing to feel the pressures of the pandemic, the latest Cigna COVID-19 Global Impact Study has revealed. In fact, 83% of people surveyed have said they are stressed, something that has remained consistent throughout the pandemic.
More importantly, they survey noted that the 'always on' working rates have also remained high, with 79% of respondents reporting they are checking emails and being constantly available even office hours or over the weekends. This was a slight increase from the 76% reported in June and January.
In tackling the issue, the study found a few factors that could play a part in mitigating the impact of stress, whereby work-related measures showed a significant impact. These included job stability, good career development, and good work-life balance, which presented opportunities for employers and leaders to support their teams.
More employees want to work from home for at least half the time in the future
With the situation placing more importance on working from home, and in turn, with working form home proving useful to certain demographics, more employees are now receptive towards the arrangement. In particular, while 53% of employees surveyed in June revealed they would want to continue working from home for at least half the time in the future, the numbers have now risen slightly to 56%.
The largest increases were seen in Hong Kong where they rose by 13% between June and August (60% in August vs 47% in June), Spain rose by 6% (62% in August vs 56% in June), and the UAE grew by 8% (54% in August vs 46% in June).
However, the UK saw a decline of 9% (45% in June vs 54% in August) suggesting that some weariness about ongoing home working is being felt.
Strong support networks are seen to boost resilience
As countries around continue to grapple with the impact of the pandemic, a strong support network has indeed proven to be a source of resilience. For instance, having a support network of family and friends has been cited as the main source of resilience among 53% of respondents, above the government (43%), health services (36%) and finally, employers (26%).
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Established psychologists from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines and the US are speaking at the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Conference taking place virtually on 10-12 November. Pre-order your tickets at the conference to gain deep insights into prevalent triggers of poor mental well-being and the support available. Group discounts with three pax or more registrations are available at an attractive price! Speak to Priya Veeriah, Regional Production Manager, to register your team of well-being champions today.
Find out more here.
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