According to The Mental Health Index: U.S. Workers Show Signs of Improved Focus; Yet Remain Significantly at Risk for Depression and General Anxiety
Since March 2020, the Mental Health Index: U.S. Worker Edition has tracked the downward spiral of Americans’ mental health catalyzed by the COVID-19 global pandemic. Until now, data presented only troubling news. According to the latest Mental Health Index: U.S. Worker Edition, employees’ risk of depression (up 64%) and general anxiety (up 43%) remain significantly elevated when compared to pre-pandemic. Yet, the risk of general anxiety disorder is stable from August to September and risk of depression saw a low single-digit 6% increase. Stress and anxiety levels are stabilizing. And risk of PTSD declined 22% from August to September and is approaching February levels – a sign of continued adaptation to the current state of our world.
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Total Brain is clinically validated brain assessments offer additional encouraging news. Employees’ ability to focus and complete tasks (improved 28% since August) and make decisions (improved 9% since August) are near or better than pre-pandemic levels. These optimistic findings coincide with the back-to-school season and the end of summer vacation and may reflect workers’ transition from a summer to fall mindset.
Additional noteworthy Mental Health Index findings:
Men
- Risk for general anxiety disorder is up 24% since August.
- Risk for depression is up 36% since August.
Women
- Risk of general anxiety disorder is down 12% since August.
- Risk of depression is down 8% since August.
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.
“Mental health is not a static condition,” explained Louis Gagnon, CEO, Total Brain. “As the fallout from the pandemic continues, we see workers continuing to adapt and reframe. We are seeing both negative and positive fluctuations. While we are heartened by improved focus and decision-making skills and a decrease in risk of PTSD month-over-month, we must underscore the need for employers to continue to lead with employee mental health at the forefront of their priorities. The mental health crisis is taking place and far from being over.”
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