TELUS Mental Health Index: Singapore's workforce faces growing mental health crisis, threatening productivity and physical health

New research reveals sharp declines in mental health scores reversing two years of
modest but steady improvement

SINGAPORE, Nov. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, TELUS Health released its TELUS Mental Health Index (the "Index") with reports examining the mental health of employed people in Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and Europe. The Singapore report reveals that the country's workforce faces a growing mental health crisis, threatening both productivity and physical health. The Index also reveals sharp declines in mental health scores reversing two years of modest but steady improvement.

"As anxiety and isolation intensify, we also see financial insecurity across Singapore, all of which is impacting mental, physical and financial health," said Haider Amir, Director, Asia at TELUS Health. "This challenge also presents a powerful opportunity for employers. By prioritising comprehensive wellbeing programs and creating a supportive workplace culture, businesses can make a tangible difference in their employees' overall wellbeing. 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."

The TELUS Mental Health Index also found:

• Nearly one-third of workers now score 50 or below on the mental health scale, indicating a concerning national trend.
• Workers without emergency savings are over three times more likely to report anxiety or depression diagnoses.
• Anxiety and depression is three times higher in younger age groups compared to their seniors.
• he Public Administration and Defence sectors show the lowest mental health scores in Singapore, dropping over six points.
• Highly motivated workers lose 54.2 productive days annually, compared to 75.4 days for those less interested in improving their wellbeing.
• Poor employer support for mental wellbeing nearly doubles productivity losses: 79.1 lost workdays in productivity lost annually versus 36.7 for those with excellent support.

"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. "As employees increasingly look to their employers for comprehensive support—whether financial, physical, or mental—all of which are essential to their overall wellbeing, employers have a strong opportunity to make a positive impact by leveraging this interest and providing strong programs."

In September 2024, the mental health scores of workers in various regions were:

• Singapore: 61.6
• Australia: 61.1
• New Zealand: 59.7
• United Kingdom: 64.6
• Europe: 61.6
• United States: 70.6
• Canada: 64.4

The TELUS Mental Health Index is based on a response scoring system that turns individual responses into point values. Higher point values are associated with better mental health and less mental health risk. Scores between 0 to 49 correspond with distress levels, scores between 50 to 79 correspond with strain levels and scores between 80 to 100 correspond with optimal levels of mental health.

This TELUS Mental Health Index includes additional findings on physical health, diet and experiences with the healthcare system. As a company rooted in social purpose, TELUS Health is committed to improving health outcomes and sharing valuable insights. Read the full Singapore TELUS Mental Health Index here.

About the TELUS Mental Health Index
The data for the TELUS Health Mental Health Index was collected through an online survey from September 13 and September 26, 2024 with 1,000 respondents. All respondents reside in Singapore and were employed within the last six months. The data has been statistically weighted to ensure the regional and gender composition of the sample reflects this population.

About TELUS Health
TELUS Health is on a mission to become the most trusted wellbeing company in the world by enhancing the overall efficiency of healthcare and championing workplace wellbeing. By integrating advanced healthcare technology with comprehensive employee support services, TELUS Health provides a holistic approach to primary and preventive health and wellbeing for over 76 million people across 160 countries. Our innovative digital health platforms, including electronic medical records (EMRs) and virtual care solutions, empower healthcare professionals, employers and governments to deliver personalised care efficiently. Our employee wellbeing programs empower individuals by offering extensive support through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), mental health resources, financial counselling, and workplace wellness initiatives. At TELUS Health, we are committed to revolutionising healthcare to ensure people receive the support they need and employees thrive both personally and professionally. Together, let's make the future friendly. For more information, visit: www.telushealth.com.

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SOURCE TELUS Health; TELUS Communications Inc.