Employees with poor employer support losing up to 79 working days of productivity annually
The mental health of Singaporeans declined to 61.6 in September 2024 after a consistent upward trend in the past two years, according to the latest TELUS Mental Health Index.
"Singapore workers' mental health score drops 1.3 points, marking a significant reversal after two years of steady improvements," the report read.
It also found that 41% of Singaporeans have a high mental health risk, while 42% have a moderate mental health risk.
Source: TELUS Mental Health Index
Declining productivity from poor mental health
The decline in mental health also resulted in lower productivity scores in the country, which dropped to 50.4 from 54.5 in April.
It is also leading to up to 91.3 lost productivity days in working days per year, according to the report.
Source: TELUS Mental Health Index
"With low mental health scores nationwide, it's essential to understand the significant impact on productivity. A workforce that isn't thriving can't drive a business to its full potential," said Paula Allen, Global Leader, Research & Client Insights, TELUS Health, in a statement.
According to the report, workers with poor employer support for physical health lose 79.5 working days of productivity per year.
Those who have poor employer support for mental wellbeing are also losing 79.1 working days of productivity annually.
Haider Amir, Director, Asia at TELUS Health, noted the situation presents employers with the "powerful opportunity" to make a difference in employee wellbeing by prioritising comprehensive wellbeing programmes and creating a supportive workplace culture.
"This holistic approach, which includes financial education and support, can alleviate stress, improve financial decision-making, and ultimately drive higher productivity and stronger organisational resilience," Amir said in a statement.