“The 21 January is what has been dubbed “Blue Monday”, the so-called most depressing day of the year. While the Blue Monday formula may be pseudoscience, stress, depression and anxiety are all very real challenges for employees and productivity has been lagging in the UK for years.
“Our research found only a third of UK employees are enthusiastic about their jobs in the first place, while almost 10 million are constantly anxious or stressed due to high workloads. This has a significant impact on productivity day-to-day and is something employers need to urgently address.
“A lot can be achieved with simple measures like offering flexible working to help employees manage their commitments and pursue other areas of their lives in combination with a fulfilling work life. Employee Assistance Programmes can also provide specific help if an employee is struggling with almost any issues, be they at home or at work, legal, financial, emotional or something else.
“Financial health also has a big impact on mental health. Money worries, particularly in this post-Christmas period, can cause acute stress and anxiety. For employees looking to save a little extra, we have recently enhanced our own EmployeeCare service with a host of discounts and cashback opportunities at a range of leading retailers. All of this, and signposting to qualified counsellors, is delivered through a central app which employees can access whenever it is most convenient for them.
“Small, attentive steps such as offering these benefits can support employees throughout the entire year – so not every Monday has to be blue.”
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