The cost of living is affecting the mental health of workers over 40, with two in three (67%) feeling more stressed because of the crisis.
A survey by UK Care Guide discovered that nearly three-quarters (72%) of respondents directly attributed their higher stress levels to having to tighten their household budgets in the current economic climate.
The research, carried out by the UK website among 1,487 employees, further found that while work issues were a key cause of stress and a quarter (25%) blamed this for increasing their stress levels, personal and family issues were sources also identified by half of those polled.
Additionally, three in five (60%) of respondents said stress has negatively affected their productivity at work, while it had impacted the personal lives or family relationships of half (50%).
Saq Hussain, director of UK Care Guide, said: “Our latest UK Care Guide research reveals a worrying surge in stress levels among UK workers aged 40 and over in the face of the cost-of-living crisis. This issue cuts deeper than just affecting productivity at work. It’s intruding into individuals’ personal lives, straining relationships and fundamentally undermining their mental wellbeing.”
The research also found 46% have introduced mechanisms to cope with stress and one in five (20%) have sought help from professionals to manage it.
Hussain added: “Amidst these challenges, it’s commendable that almost half of those surveyed have adopted some form of coping mechanism to manage their stress levels. However, the glaring outlier is the lowly 20% looking for professional mental health support. This number signifies not only a potential stigma around seeking mental health assistance, but also perhaps hints at the lack of easily accessible mental health services.
“Our findings highlight an urgent call to action for employers, healthcare organisations, and policymakers alike. There is a pressing need to not only address the root causes of workplace stress but also to create a supportive environment that promotes mental health resources and empowers individuals to effectively manage their stress levels without fear of stigma.”
