Worker mental health in Canada is declining across all sectors and regions, with financial stress significantly impacting productivity in some cases, according to a recent report by Telus Health, which offers employee assistance programs.
In its mental health index report, Telus said mental health challenges among workers has intensified, with its “mental health scores” dropping to 61.3 — nearly two points lower than it was at the start of the pandemic.
“This is the most significant decline in Telus Mental Health Index scores since April 2020, with financial well-being experiencing the most notable downturn,” said Telus Health global leader of research and insights, Paula Allen.
Allen said many workers are feeling the strain of current economic pressures, as a season of increased spending and social expectations approaches.
Financial concerns have lowered productivity for more than 23 per cent of employees in Canada, the report said. This sentiment is most common among younger workers, parents, and workers without emergency savings, who are more likely to perceive money as a source of stress and anxiety.
The mental health “sub-score” for financial risk had the most significant one-month decline, at nearly seven points.
The report also said that 40 per cent of workers frequently feel worried or anxious about their financial situation, with 48 per cent of that group saying they were most concerned about the cost of living, and 25 per cent about debt.
Fewer than half of respondents report being in a good financial position, down nearly 10 per cent from the number reported last year, the survey said.
“Every measured aspect of mental health showed a decline, particularly in the proportion of individuals with emergency savings,” Allen added.
The report also said that the proportion of workers at high mental health risk reached a new peak this year, climbing to 37 per cent — nearly four per cent higher than the annual average in the last four years.
While mental health scores have declined across the country, workers in Saskatchewan showed the most significant decline, it said.
Telus Health’s chief mental health officer, Dr. Matthew Chow, said this time of year often brings additional challenges and sensitivities that can deplete worker resilience.
“Many struggle silently, feeling they shouldn’t voice their concerns during what’s supposed to be a joyful period. It’s crucial to remember that these feelings are common – you’re not alone,” said Chow.