Originally published: Research News Live, 15 September 2021
The spotlight on mental health has been increasing over recent years. Looking out for early indications of stress and anxiety, and reaching out for help has become even more important since the start of the pandemic.
But how many of us actually take up the support that is offered? And given that the pandemic has had such an impact on work routines, how are employers looking after the emotional, psychological and social well being of their workforce?
Pureprofile asked a sample of 1,923 nationally representative panellists from the United Kingdom, United States, Australia and New Zealand how they feel about their mental health – and whether they’ve reached out to any friends, family or a professional for support. Here’s what they discovered:
More than a quarter of all people say the pandemic has had no affect on their mental health, but well over half the people across each country are concerned about their mental health: AU (62%), UK (61%), US (58%), NZ (55%).
Close to half of all respondents are concerned about the mental health of friends or family members: NZ (50%), AU (48%), UK (47%), US (43%).
About 60% of Americans, Aussies and Brits have not reached out to offer mental health support to friends and family, nor have they had anyone reach out to them. This is compared to 50% of Kiwis.
Over 80% of Brits, Aussies and Kiwis are not currently receiving professional help, compared to 77% of Americans.
About 25% of workplaces in each country do not offer any support for mental health.
Professional counselling is the most popular support service offered by employers in each country: NZ (32%), AU (25%), US (20%), UK (18%).
The infographic below represents further key findings from the research:
