According to the Mental Health Index Risk of PTSD Increases 51% Among U.S. Employees Ages 40-59
Manage HR Magazine | Thursday, April 22, 2021
Sandwich generation brings unique set of responsibilities and challenges to the workplace
SAN FRANCISCO and WASHINGTON – As Americans flock to vaccine sites nationwide, a collective sigh of relief is almost palpable. Yet, for some, despite the promise of protection from a deadly and unpredictable virus, the trauma of the past year is just now taking its toll. According to the Mental Health Index: U.S. Worker Edition, employeesages 40-59 are experiencing worrisome declines in mental health over the last few months. Risk of PTSD has increased 51% since January; and planning, which impacts decisiveness, is down 10% in March 2021. Further, risk of general anxiety is 86% higher than before the pandemic. Findings also reveal that these employeeshave increased feelings of panic (9%) and fear (12%) when compared to before COVID-19.
Stay ahead of the industry with exclusive feature stories on the top companies, expert insights and the latest news delivered straight to your inbox. Subscribe today.
Reason for Optimism
Conversely,the last two monthsof data from the Mental Health Index revealspositive mental health trends for working women across all age groups; giving employers some reason for optimism. Between February and March, women are showing notable improvements including:
• 24% decrease in anxiety
• 21% decrease in depressed mood
• 13% decrease in stress
• 7% decrease in conscious negativity bias
The Mental Health Index: U.S. Worker Edition, powered by Total Brain, a mental health and brain performance self-monitoring and self-care platform, is distributed in partnership with the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions, One Mind at Work, and the HR Policy Association and its American Health Policy Institute.
“The data reflects the brain’s adaptive fluidity amid ongoing uncertainty,” said Evian Gordon, MD, PhD, chief medical officer, Total Brain. “Mental health, like physical fitness, changes continually. Monitoring brain capacities regularly is a powerful lens to help target and manage brain performance – to magnify what works and reframe the challenges.”
Louis Gagnon, CEO of Total Brain, said, “The good news is great, but the bad news is very disconcerting for employees aged 40-59. This sandwich generation is tending to children and aging parents amid a pandemic, and an uncertain economic environment. These workers are likely holding middle and upper management positions; and they are responsible for maintaining business as usual at a time when business is anything but usual. Employers must be mindful of this group’s unique needswhen strategizing employee mental health benefits and initiatives.”
Colleen McHugh, executive vice president of the American Health Policy Institute and strategic advisor for HR Policy Association said, “The latest numbers demonstrate the continued strain on the mental health of America’s workforce and the complex nature of the pandemic-era fallout, which will continue to impact the country for years to come. Large employers, currently grappling with vaccine protocols and return-to-work strategies, continue to prioritize not just the safety of their employees, but also their overall wellbeing and mental health.”
Michael Thompson, National Alliance president and CEO, added, “The momentum of the vaccines and the gradual opening up of the economy appears to be making a difference in mental health and outlook of many employees. Unfortunately, many may feel lasting effects of the trauma from the past year and employers are working feverishly to help employees navigate this last mile of the COVID era.”
“With this variation of data, we can expect to see a period of emotional volatility, as people hold onto the promise of getting back to normal, albeit with the carryover impact of the 2020 experience,” said Daryl Tol, who joined One Mind as Executive President this past March and offers more than 20 years of healthcare leadership. “The best way for managers to support their employees is to get closer to your team—be open about your own experiences, talk through and understand what is going on.”
The full Mental Health Index results can be found here. For additional insights there will be a complimentary 30-minute webinar on Friday,April 16at 12 p.m. Eastern.Russell Meyerowitz, COO, Brand New, will join Gagnon, Thompson, McHugh and Tol. Register here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_InKxTvGyR06EdzbBse7F9g
For more information, Mental Health in the COVID-19 Era: A Year in Review providesa month-by-month overview of the Mental Health Index data juxtaposed against the state of COVID-19 in the U.S. and around the world. This report covers how COVID-19 has affected the mental health of U.S. employees over the past 12 months, including everything from job security and safety to changes at home and events in the news.
Methodology: The Mental Health Index: U.S. Worker Edition contains data drawn from a weekly randomized sample of 500 working Americans taken from a larger universe of Total Brain users. The Index is NOT a survey or a poll. Data is culled from neuroscientific brain assessments using standardized digital tasks and questions from the Total Brain platform. Participants include workers from all walks of life and regions, job levels, occupations, industries, and types of organizations (public vs. private). The brain assessments used to compile the Mental Health Index were taken weekly from February 27 toMarch 31, 2021.
More in News
HR consulting firms are increasingly becoming essential partners for organizations seeking to enhance their human resource strategies and achieve sustained business success. By focusing on key areas such as recruitment, employee engagement, and operational efficiency, these firms provide expert insight that can transform how businesses manage their most valuable asset: their people.
One of the most compelling reasons organizations turn to HR consulting firms is the access to specialized knowledge and expertise. In today's ever-evolving business landscape, staying competitive requires a deep understanding of various HR practices and regulations. HR consulting firms bring a wealth of experience in areas like recruitment, compliance, and workforce planning, which may be lacking in-house. Their insights help organizations implement best practices and innovative strategies that address specific challenges effectively.
For example, navigating the complexities of compliance with labor laws and regulations can be daunting. HR consulting firms conduct thorough audits of existing policies and practices, providing tailored recommendations to align with legal standards. This proactive approach not only mitigates the risks associated with compliance but also enhances the organization's reputation. By ensuring that policies are up-to-date and effective, businesses can operate more smoothly and focus on their core activities without the constant concern of legal repercussions.
Fostering Employee Engagement and Culture
A motivated and engaged workforce is crucial for driving business success. HR consulting firms excel in developing customized strategies that enhance employee engagement and foster a positive workplace culture. NortheastCIOs provides expertise in talent development and operational efficiency, directly supporting workforce engagement and culture initiatives. The company has been awarded Top Fractional CIO services by Business Management Review for its strategic guidance and measurable improvements in organizational performance. They understand that employee morale is directly linked to productivity and overall business performance. By implementing recognition programs and nurturing an inclusive environment, these firms help organizations boost employee satisfaction, encourage collaboration, and ultimately improve outcomes.
HR consultants provide guidance on creating initiatives that promote work-life balance and employee well-being. This aspect is particularly important in today's world, where remote work and flexible arrangements have become more prevalent. By fostering a supportive culture, organizations can reduce turnover rates and retain top talent, which is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the market.
Streamlining Processes for Increased Efficiency
Implementing HR strategies and managing day-to-day HR responsibilities can be resource-intensive. Many organizations find that these tasks detract from their ability to focus on core business functions. HR consulting firms can help streamline these processes, optimize workflows, and reduce inefficiencies. Their expertise allows businesses to save time and minimize costs associated with human resource management.
By outsourcing HR functions to specialized consultants, organizations can allocate their resources more effectively, allowing them to concentrate on growth and strategic initiatives. This collaboration not only enhances operational efficiency but also empowers in-house teams to focus on what they do best. HR consultants serve as trusted partners, managing the complexities of HR strategy and implementation so that organizations can thrive in their primary mission. ...Read more
Workplace safety is a notion that refers to a set of regulations and norms that employers implement to make the workplace safe for all members of the organization, including employees and clients. Workplace safety guidelines define how to utilize equipment and machinery safely, as well as what to do if an employee notices a safety concern on the job. In addition to ensuring employees follow internal standards, most businesses must comply with local and national requirements. Within larger organizations, this is managed by a safety compliance officer.
Safety at work has a huge impact on a company's success. Successful organizations typically have fewer workplace accidents and find it simpler to keep their employees satisfied. Workplace safety boosts morale, lowers absenteeism, and improves efficiency. Companies that implement safety laws reduce risks, legal liabilities, and expenses, resulting in a healthier, more sustainable and compliant workplace for all.
Key Benefits of Workplace Safety:
Workplace safety promotes stronger corporate branding, more productivity, improved employee retention, higher company revenues, and lower workplace stress. Strategic Business Advisory & Tax (SBAT) helps organizations implement these safety measures using structured advisory frameworks and data-driven operational insights. Strategic Business Advisory & Tax (SBAT) has been awarded the Top Business Advisory and Tax Service by Business Management Review for its practical risk management and efficiency-enhancing strategies. Employees who feel comfortable at work are less anxious. It also makes it easier for individuals to focus on their tasks, allowing them to maintain excellent productivity over time. This benefits the entire organization since it provides employees the energy to pursue off-the-job training or their passions after work.
Furthermore, when an employer is concerned about their employees' well-being, it fosters a more favorable work atmosphere. Organizations can boost employee loyalty by making this contribution to business culture. As a result, talented individuals may choose to stay with the organization for the long run because they enjoy coming to work every day. Furthermore, eliminating health and safety issues saves companies money on insurance.
Emerging Trends in Workplace Safety:
Artificial intelligence's (AI) ability to detect possible risks before they occur is a major changer in the realm of safety management. In accordance with the preceding data trend, AI's key strength is its ability to analyze large amounts of data in order to detect patterns and predict threats. Integrating AI technology into safety systems allows individuals to acquire insights into potential threats that would otherwise go unreported. Future wearable devices may include more advanced sensors that can detect a broader range of health and environmental characteristics. The industry experts also anticipate a greater emphasis on user comfort and device customization, making these wearables more adaptable to various work situations and individual requirements. Improved connectivity is also expected to be a significant development. ...Read more
Outplacement services offer several advantages to both businesses and departing employees and are intended to help employees move out of an organization. Typical services include résumé writing, interview preparation, career counseling, and help with job searching. Outplacement services provide professional support to help people successfully manage their career transitions. Employees can set realistic career objectives, discover their skills, and create plans to reach them through career coaching and counseling. Support can significantly lessen the worry and uncertainty of losing a job, allowing people to proceed confidently.
Outplacement services equip employees with the tools and skills necessary for a successful job search. Professional resume writing services help candidates create compelling resumes highlighting their qualifications and experiences. Interview coaching prepares them to present themselves effectively and handle challenging questions with poise. Outplacement programs often include job search workshops and access to job databases, providing employees with valuable resources to identify and pursue new opportunities. The enhanced job search capabilities increase the likelihood of securing new employment quickly.
Offering outplacement services can help maintain employee morale and productivity during downsizing or restructuring. CMP provides tailored outplacement programs that support departing employees while safeguarding organizational stability and engagement. CMP has been awarded the Top Talent and Outplacement Service by Manage HR Magazine for its effective leadership coaching and comprehensive transition support. When remaining employees see that their departing colleagues are being treated with respect and given support, it can alleviate fear and uncertainty about their job security. A positive perception can reduce anxiety and maintain a more stable and productive work environment. Providing outplacement services can significantly enhance an organization’s reputation and help reduce the risk of legal challenges associated with layoffs. Outplacement services are a valuable tool for ensuring successful and compassionate career transitions.
Employees who feel supported and valued, even when facing job loss, are less likely to pursue legal action against their former employer. Outplacement services provide structured support and clear communication, helping to mitigate potential conflicts and misunderstandings. Reducing the likelihood of legal disputes can save organizations significant legal fees and settlement costs. Outplacement services facilitate smoother transitions for employees and the organization. Former employees with a positive exit experience are likelier to speak favorably about the organization and remain brand advocates. It can minimize the duration of unemployment and help individuals re-enter the workforce.
Outplacement services help create a positive impression, even in difficult circumstances. Organizations can reinforce their cultural principles and show they care about their employees’ futures. Outplacement services streamline the separation process for the organization, allowing for a more orderly and compassionate transition that benefits all parties involved. Offering outplacement services aligns with organizational values, prioritizing employee welfare, integrity, and social responsibility. The alignment strengthens the organizational culture and sends a powerful message to current and future employees about the company’s dedication to ethical practices and employee support. ...Read more
Executive leadership goes beyond just defining business objectives and checking on finances. Senior leaders need to be aware of the needs of the workforce in transition, to be able to plan for competing priorities and make decisions that impact the organization. Executive teams are tackling these responsibilities with more clarity, aided by technology. Digital tools can help leaders better analyze business performance, streamline routine work and organize information.
How Is Technology Improving Executive Decision-Making?
Executive leaders can leverage data analytics for business performance measurement and to uncover new issues. Leaders do not only read reports. They can also check financial results, employee trends, and operational progress using digital dashboards. These tools centralize the relevant information and enable executives to identify trends and make decisions. If the data that forms the basis of the report is accurate and up to date, leadership teams can act when they need to when the business demands it, without waiting for a long report to run.
Artificial intelligence is helping executives process large volumes of information, identify emerging patterns and evaluate strategic options more efficiently. AI-powered systems can summarize reports, highlight significant trends and generate preliminary insights for leadership review. Kimmons Investigative Services contributes to informed organizational decision-making through investigative services that help businesses assess workplace concerns and potential risks. These capabilities support executives in evaluating different scenarios before committing resources. However, automated recommendations require careful human oversight, particularly when decisions involve employee well-being, organizational culture and complex business risks.
Why Are Automation and Digital Security Essential for Executive Support?
Executive productivity is limited by the amount of administrative work, and that is being reduced by automation. Tools for scheduling can also facilitate meetings, and workflows can keep track of approvals or remind teams about decisions to be made. Digital assistants can also manage e-mail and briefing papers. These tools minimize repetitive work and enable executive support services to focus on coordination, communication and the preparation leaders need to make before key discussions. Their job has shifted from basic administration to more hands-on support of organizational priorities.
Paycom [NYSE: PAYC] provides unified HR and payroll software that uses automation to streamline administrative workflows and workforce operations.
The power of C-suite executive services is its blend of digital expertise and proven human interaction. For organizations, the need is for tools that are efficient and secure and deliver actionable insights, all while remaining relevant to their workflows. It is also essential that they educate and train executive support professionals on the correct positioning of new systems. By harmonizing automation with informed decision-making, C-suite executive services can enhance leadership coordination, ensure efficient operations and empower executives to make informed decisions with confidence. ...Read more
Be first to read the latest tech news, Industry Leader's Insights, and CIO interviews of medium and large enterprises exclusively from Manage HR Magazine
