Nearly 1 in 3 North American employees unable to meet basic needs, research finds
The research points to both a significant increase in unmet basic needs since the onset of the pandemic and persistent inflation.
An increasing number of North American workers are struggling to meet their basic needs. Nearly one-third of non-clinical cases managed by ComPsych in 2023 in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico were related to help with government programs for such needs.
“We’ve increasingly heard from our customers — especially those in industries like retail, manufacturing and foodservice — that it’s become harder and harder for their workers to cover the cost of their basic needs like housing, utilities, medical care, transportation and food,” said Richard A. Chaifetz, Ph.D., founder, CEO and chair of the employee mental health services provider. “Needless to say, this can be a tremendous source of stress and anxiety. Our holistic approach to care helps employees navigate the mental distress caused by these challenges as well as the root causes, connecting them to the resources they need to find solutions.”
These findings are based on a sample analysis of more than 25,000 cases in 2023 and represent a 27% increase in government assistance since 2019. This points to both a significant increase in unmet basic needs since the onset of the pandemic and persistent inflation.
The results reinforce previous research showing a surge in workplace anxiety. In 2023, nearly a quarter of workers who reached out for mental health assistance did so to get help with anxiety. As the number one presenting issue reported by U.S. workers, anxiety now tops depression, stress, partner or relationship issues, family issues, addiction and grief, among other subjects, that people seek help to cope with.
The problem is not limited to U.S. workers. Nearly one-third of employees who sought mental health assistance in the United Kingdom last year also did so because of anxiety issues. This percentage is several points higher than in the United States.
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“It’s clear that as a society, we’ve become more anxious in recent years, and for good reason,” Chaifetz said. “From the pandemic to ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, civil unrest, an unpredictable economy and increasingly polarized political rhetoric surrounding elections, there is a persistent underlying feeling of apprehension and worry.”
It is imperative for business leaders to help employees navigate a changing work and social environment, he said. “Companies who invest in resources for employees ultimately benefit by attracting and retaining a healthier and more productive workforce, allowing both employees and companies to thrive,” Chaifetz said.