Health-related productivity challenges are costing Canadian workplaces far more than employee absences alone, according to a new report from Manulife Canada.
The Wellness Report, based on responses from nearly 4,700 employees across 159 organizations, found health challenges account for the equivalent of 46 lost working days per employee annually under a standard five-day work week.
While absences tied to health issues accounted for 3 per cent of total working time lost, the report found a much larger share, 19 per cent, was affected by health-related productivity challenges while employees were still on the job.
“Losing the equivalent of 46 working days per employee isn’t just a productivity issue, it tells us people are struggling in ways we don’t always see,” said Ashesh Desai, head of group benefits at Manulife Canada.
The report pointed to burnout, stress and mental fatigue as major contributors to declining productivity, with employees reporting difficulties maintaining focus, energy and performance at work.
Among respondents, 80 per cent said work contributes to their current mental state, while 57 per cent said mental health challenges affect their ability to perform their job. More than half, 57 per cent, also reported experiencing burnout at work at least some of the time.
Mental fatigue emerged as a major concern, with 19 per cent identifying it as the biggest barrier to improving their mental health.
Other health challenges are also affecting employees. More than half of respondents, 53 per cent, reported poor sleep quality while nearly one-third cited lack of time as the primary barrier to improving physical health.
The report said employees identified physical activity, workplace factors and nutrition among their top health concerns, highlighting the connection between overall wellness and workplace productivity.
Employers have an opportunity to improve outcomes by making workplace supports easier to access and use.
“Benefits are a strong foundation,” Desai said. “But the real impact comes when employees know what’s available to them and feel confident using those supports.”
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