Aon plc, a global professional services firm, has recently released its 2022-2023 Global Wellbeing Survey, shedding light on significant disparities in employee well being risks between the UK and other regions.

The survey, conducted in collaboration with IPSOS, gathered insights from HR and reward leaders across 46 countries and various industries. Here’s an overview of the key findings and their implications.

Mental Health and Burnout Take Center Stage

Mental health and burnout have emerged as the most pressing employee well being concerns on a global scale. This sentiment is echoed by HR leaders worldwide.

In the UK, a staggering 52% of respondents identified mental and emotional health as a primary concern, with an equal percentage highlighting burnout and languishing. This marks a shift from the 2020 survey, where work-life balance was the top concern.

The rise in mental health and burnout issues can be attributed to the changing work landscape, with more employees adopting hybrid and remote work arrangements. While these flexible arrangements offer benefits, they also pose challenges such as a lack of social interaction, blurred work-life boundaries, and the increased use of technology, leading to fatigue and stress.

Financial Well being Gains Prominence

Interestingly, the survey shows a significant change in employee perceptions of financial well being risks in the UK. In the latest findings, financial risk and stress have surged to become the third most important issue, with 39% of UK respondents expressing concern.

This shift underscores the impact of rising living costs and financial pressures on employees, even as employers strive to create a more resilient workforce.

Physical Health Risks Vary

The survey also highlights differences in physical health risks affecting company performance across regions. In the UK, musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, cancer, and heart disease are disproportionately significant factors, with 46%, 42%, and 32% of respondents, respectively, citing them as major issues.

In contrast, global employers identify physical inactivity, high blood pressure, MSK, and obesity as the top factors affecting company performance.

Implications for Employers

Letitia Rowlin, principal strategic consultant for Health Solutions at Aon in the UK, emphasizes the need for employers to address these well being risks strategically. As the work landscape evolves, organizations must find ways to support their employees’ mental, emotional, and financial health.

Initiatives like fostering social interaction, setting clear work boundaries, and providing financial wellness programs can be pivotal in enhancing employee well being.

Additionally, addressing physical health concerns, especially MSK issues, remains crucial. Employers should adapt to the changing work environment and consider measures to support employees in maintaining their physical health, even in remote roles.

The Survey offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of employee well being, with the UK experiencing notable shifts in priorities. Employers should use these findings to inform their well being strategies and create a supportive environment that addresses the unique challenges faced by their workforce.

By prioritizing mental, emotional, and financial well being and addressing physical health risks, organizations can cultivate a resilient and thriving workforce in an ever-changing world of work.