Physically active employees lose 10 fewer workdays of productivity each year compared to their sedentary counterparts, according to the latest TELUS Mental Health Index. The report, examining the mental health of employed Canadians, also found that workers dissatisfied with their physical health score 22 points lower in mental health and lose an additional 21 working days in productivity annually than those satisfied with their physical health.
“There is a clear link between physical activity, employer support and employee wellbeing,” said Paula Allen, global leader, research and client insights at TELUS Health. “We’ve seen that supported, active employees have better mental health and higher productivity—outcomes for which every business owner strives.”
Report highlights
The index highlighted several key findings:
- Women are 40 per cent more likely than men to report a negative experience with the healthcare system.
- Workers perceiving poor employer support for their physical wellbeing lose 22 more workdays of productivity annually and score 22 points lower in mental health than those perceiving excellent support.
- Employees uninterested in improving their health lose 14 more workdays in productivity annually than those motivated.
- Stress reduction motivates 12 per cent of workers to exercise.
- Nine per cent of workers surveyed never engage in physical activity.
- Less than 10 per cent of workers report engaging in activities that promote social wellbeing.
- Twenty-two per cent of employees report anxiety, 14 per cent report depression and 13 per cent report sleep disorders.
- Employees without emergency funds are twice as likely to seek stress reduction and report anxiety or depression diagnoses.
- Mental health conditions are disproportionately reported among younger workers, women and those without savings.
“Organizations can make a real difference by offering practical solutions like virtual fitness classes, on-site fitness amenities and engaging wellbeing challenges,” said Dr. Matthew Chow, chief mental health officer at TELUS Health. “These initiatives create healthier, more engaged workforces while providing options to address the diverse needs and wants of employees.”
The report also revealed that two in five Canadian workers lack knowledge of what an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) entails. The mental health score of workers who don’t know or report that their employer doesn’t offer an EAP is at least three points lower than workers with an EAP.
Global mental health scores
In September 2024, the mental health scores of workers in various regions were as follows:
- Canada: 64.4
- United States: 70.6
- United Kingdom: 64.6
- Europe: 61.6
- Australia: 61.1
- New Zealand: 59.7
- Singapore: 61.6
The TELUS Mental Health Index uses a scoring system where higher values indicate better mental health and lower risk. Scores between 0 and 49 correspond with distress levels, 50 to 79 with strain levels and 80 to 100 with optimal mental health.
Data for the index was collected through an online survey conducted from September 13 to September 30 with 3,000 respondents residing in Canada who were employed within the last six months. The sample was statistically weighted to reflect the regional and gender composition of this population.
