New research from SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) offers a warning to U.S. companies about the psychological costs of COVID-19. While millions find themselves unemployed, 41 percent of U.S. employees feel burnt out from work while another 23 percent report feeling depressed. The survey on the mental health of U.S. workers under lockdown also found employees are struggling with negative emotions, concentration, and motivation. Notably, rates were higher among women, younger workers, and those living with a vulnerable person.
HR Technology News: Inova Payroll Acquires One Source Payroll
“COVID-19 is taking a toll on our minds and emotions in a million little ways. Now, more than ever, employers should double down against stigmas and guarantee employees know of the resources, benefits, and accommodations available.”
Key findings include:
- Nearly 1 in 4 (23 percent) employees report feeling down, depressed, or hopeless often;
- 41 percent feel burnt out, drained, or exhausted from their work;
- More than 1 in 5 employees report COVID-19 has threatened the tangible parts of their jobs to a great extent or to a very great extent, including personal opportunities, job security, safe working conditions, and benefits and pay;
- Over 1 in 3 employees (37 percent) reported having done nothing to cope with these feelings and only (7 percent) have reached out to a mental health professional.
HR Technology News: HireVue Appoints Ilene Landon as Senior Vice President of Professional Services and Delivery
“It’s a timely reminder during Mental Health Awareness Month that there’s more to this crisis than new cases and economic costs,” said SHRM President and CEO, Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP. “COVID-19 is taking a toll on our minds and emotions in a million little ways. Now, more than ever, employers should double down against stigmas and guarantee employees know of the resources, benefits, and accommodations available.”
The research also found women, younger workers, and those with living with a vulnerable person (i.e. heath workers, essential employees, those over 65 years old, and the immunocompromised) were more severely impacted by COVID-19. For instance, women (51 percent) are more likely than men (47 percent) to report feeling down, depressed, or hopeless often. Half of Generation Z employees (51 percent) agree their work makes them feel burned out compared to 24 percent of Baby Boomers.
HR Technology News: TecHRseries Interview with Michelle Boockoff-Bajdek, CMO at SkillSoft
Write into psen@itechseries.com to learn more about our exclusive editorial packages and programs.